Ullmann * Krsa * Schulhoff * Haas – CD

This CD presents the Bennewitz Quartet performing chamber works by composers whose lives and careers were connected with Czechoslovakias musical life between the two world wars, the Jewish ghetto in Terezn and the horrors of German Nazism. The programme includes Viktor Ullmanns String Quartet No. 3, written in Terezn; Hans Krsas Theme and Variations for String Quartet, completed in 1936 and first performed in Terezn alongside the childrens opera Brundibr; Erwin Schulhoffs Five Pieces for String Quartet, inspired by rhythm, dance and the music of Viennese salons, Italy and Spain; and Pavel Haass String Quartet No. 2 From the Monkey Mountains, which confirms his reputation as Leo Janeks most gifted pupil. Ullmann, Krsa and Haas were deported to Auschwitz in October 1944 and murdered there. The Bennewitz Quartet, featuring Jakub Fier and tpn Jeek on violin, Ji Pinkas on viola and tpn Doleal on cello, is joined by Pavel Rehberger on percussion in Haass work. The quartet has earned international recognition through competition victories in Osaka and Italy and performances at major venues and festivals. Their interpretation brings an especially fitting artistic connection to the music of the Terezn composers.