Score

Cast in two substantial movements, Nicholas Maw’s String Quartet No.2 demonstrates many of the composer’s essential qualities  - his concern for the fluent, singing line, refinement and a very positive harmonic profile. The 30–minute work’s strongly lyrical nature and the importance of rhythmic elements reflect Maw’s belief in the continuing vitality offered by melody.

'Nothing should prevent this Quartet from snuggling firmly into the repertoire.'
Financial Times (David Murray), 15 January 1983

'…one of the most rewarding additions to the medium in many a year … both the succinctness and logic of the writing have an almost Beethoven cut.'
Daily Telegraph (Alan Blyth), 14 January 1983