The Australian String Quartet, founded in 1985, represents the string quartet tradition on the oldest continent in a unique way. All four musicians are skilled in playing a beautiful Guadagnini instrument. Furthermore, the ensemble is renowned for presenting challenging programs with an Australian connection. During the String Quartet Biennale, their distinguished compatriots Lou Bennett and Paul Stanhope will be showcasing the world premiere of * nyilamum – song cycles, their composition for string quartet, this time featuring the addition of the human voice.

Mozart’s Fifteenth String Quartet, which is the second of the six quartets dedicated to Haydn, is a dramatic piece that foreshadows the poignant late string quartets of Beethoven. Similarly, in his Second String Quartet, Britten adopts a serious tone. The piece was written in 1945 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Purcell’s death. Just a few months prior, Britten and Yehudi Menuhin had toured the just liberated German concentration camps, an experience that undoubtedly influenced the composition of this quartet.

*nyilamum – song cycles, a collaboration between Dr Lou Bennett AM, Paul Stanhope, and the Australian String Quartet (ASQ) in association with Binung Boorigan, has been commissioned by the ASQ with generous support from the nyilamum – song cycles Commissioning Circle and other donors. 

The ASQ thanks its Major Partner – The University of Adelaide, Government Supporters – The Government of South Australia and Creative Australia, and Instrument Partner – UKARIA, along with Patron Maria Myers AC and members of the Artists’ Circle. 

We acknowledge the Jaara Community and the stories they hold.