String quartet

An illusionary string quartet

A string quartet is a musical ensemble composed of four string instruments, typically two violins, one viola, and one cello. The term "string quartet" can also refer to a piece written for such a group. The ensemble is commonly used in the genre of classical music from Earth.

In 2366 a string quartet featuring Lieutenant Commander Data on violin and Miles O'Brien on cello performed in the Enterprise-D's Ten Forward. (TNG: "The Ensigns of Command")

Later that year, Data and three other officers performed in a string quartet for visiting Ambassador Sarek. (TNG: "Sarek")

Though dialogue in the episode states that the concert is of music by Mozart, the piece that brings Sarek to tears is actually the second movement (Andente, ma moderato) of the Sextet No. 1 in B-flat Major by Johannes Brahms. As its name implies, this particular piece requires six instruments, not the four of a string quartet shown, unless the group were performing an arrangement.

In 2375, a string quartet performed at the Evora diplomatic banquet held on board the Enterprise-E. (Star Trek: Insurrection)

Featured String Quartet Repertoire

Star Trek: The Next Generation

• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
  • String Quartet No. 19 in C Major, K. 465
  • Serenade for String Quartet and Bass in G Major, K. 525, "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik": I. Allegro

'Star Trek: Insurrection'

• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
  • String Quartet No. 17 in B Flat, K. 458, "The Hunt": I. Allegro vivace assai (Note: This is contrary to the credits listing of "IV. Allegro vivo-assai.")
• Joseph Haydn
  • String Quartet in D Major, Op. 64, No. 5 "The Lark": IV. Finale (Vivace)
• Composer Unknown
  • String Quartet played as Jean-Luc Picard exits the anteroom adorned with beads during the banquet.

External Links

• String Quartet at Wikipedia