The Edinburgh Quartet Songbook: Haydn Op 76. No 1

Sit back, relax, and let this Haydn Quartet, filmed in the glorious surroundings of Hopetoun House, start off your Easter Weekend with a spring in your step!
Joseph Haydn (1732 - 1809) Op 76 No.1
1. Allegro con spirito
2. Adagio sostenuto
3. Menuetto. Presto
4. Allegro ma non-troppo
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Haydn's Op. 76, the last set of six quartets he composed, are generally recognised as the pinnacle of his writing in the genre. They were completed in 1796-7 and published a couple of years later. No. 1 in G major, as befits the opening quartet of the set, is grandiose and symphonic in breadth and construction, with some impressive "orchestral" writing for the quartet, and with a broad tonal canvas including frequent explorations of the parallel minor mode.
As you approach Hopetoun House, built 1699 - 1701, the impressive panoramic view of the main facade is breathtakingly revealed. Designed by William Bruce and then altered and extended by William Adam, Hopetoun House is one of the finest examples of 18th century architecture in Britain.
The magnificent interiors which have remained virtually unchanged for three centuries reflect the elegance of the Georgian era and are decorated with the best period furniture, paintings, tapestries and clocks, with beautifully crafted finishes of carving, gilding and plaster work.
Recorded by Mark Neal (Audio) and Sandy Butler (Visuals) in the beautiful historic surroundings of Hopetoun House, Edinburgh