Charles Wood: String Quartets

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the passing of Irish-born composer Charles Wood (1866 - 1926), SOMM Recordings presents a significant collection of his chamber works. This CD features performances by the acclaimed London Chamber Ensemble Quartet, led by violinist Madeleine Mitchell.

Key Features/Benefits

• Features String Quartet No. 2 'Highgate' and String Quartet No. 4 'Harrogate'.
• Includes Wood's Variations On an Irish Folk Tune.
• Performed by the London Chamber Ensemble Quartet, praised for its 'high quality chamber music-making' and 'gripping interpretations'.
• Led by violinist Madeleine Mitchell.
• Released to mark the centenary of Charles Wood's death (1866 - 1926).

Contents

This audio CD contains works by Charles Wood, including performances of his Streichquartette (String Quartets).

Specifications

• Binding: audioCD
• Manufacturer: Somm Recordings
• Contributors: London Chamber Ensemble Quartet; Madeleine Mitchell (artist)
• Language: German
• Number of Discs: 1
• Release Date: 2026-05-15
• Weight: 109g
• Country of Origin: Netherlands

About the Music and Performers

Charles Wood, an Irish-born composer, began writing chamber music by age sixteen. His String Quartet No. 1 was completed in 1885. The String Quartet No. 2, nicknamed 'Highgate,' hints at Wood's emerging individuality while showing slight reminiscences of Brahms, notably in its unusual third movement featuring a seven-bar ground bass for the viola.

The London Chamber Ensemble Quartet, formed in 2019, continues the legacy following their previous Gramophone recommended recording of Wood's sixth and last String Quartet (SOMMCD 0692).

Discover essential chamber music from Charles Wood, expertly performed and released by Somm Recordings.