From Strings

The somewhat older Shanghai Quartet, by contrast, has developed into an exceptionally fine ensemble. Formed in 1983 in Shanghai, it has been in residence at the University of Richmond for 10 years. Despite several personnel changes, it sounds completely integrated in style, spirit, and expression, though the players' tone is not really homogenous. At the Walter Reade Theater, the group gave the most beautiful performance of a Mozart quartet (K. 499) I have heard from young players for a long time: simple, gracious, subtle, lovingly, mindful of all the magic moments, and carefully thought out, but spontaneously and inwardly expressive. The Ravel Quartet was equally good, brilliant and atmospheric with seamless interplay and takeovers.

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