The Ensemble loves to unearth forgotten composers and rediscover unknown historical chamber versions of the classics. In this Beethoven and Haydn program, we present two rare chamber versions: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 and Haydn’s Symphony No. 44 The Trauer (Mourning).

The 18th century arrangement of Beethoven’s masterwork, penned by Masi and featuring string quintet, flute and double bass, was discovered by Ensemble members in the British Library’s rare music collection.

Haydn’s well-known Trauer Symphony was arranged for chamber ensemble by Dr. Hague of Cambridge in the early 19th century. The symphony was so named because Haydn requested that the slow movement be played at his own funeral.

The program also includes a string sextet by Albrechtsberger and a virtuosic flute quartet by Ries, the lesser known contemporaries of Haydn and Beethoven. Albrechtsberger was an early teacher of Beethoven, who introduced him to his student, colleague, and copyist Ferdinand Ries.