The best way to describe the Lydian String Quartet's performance last Saturday would be phenomenal. This group of artists-in-residence displayed to audiences this weekend the raw power that can be harnessed through the immaculate presentation of the art form known as chamber music. The concert was both inspiring and moving, and the talent of this group of musicians is undeniable.The quartet began with Schubert's Quartet Movement in C Minor, where immediately the talent of the group became obvious. The "Allegro Assai" movement of the Quartet Movement in C Minor is a beautiful piece, using very distinct harmonies, which enrapture the ears. The quartet's musicianship was ravishing, and the use of beautiful bow strokes and multi-tonal harmonies rippled with the piece's movement throughout the hall. Joshua Gordon(MUS), cellist and newest member of the quartet, proved his worth with his presentation of the symphonic sound of Schubert's work. His pizzicato and transitions were idyllic, and his manipulation of the cello, masterful. Mary Ruth Ray, founder of the Lydian Quartet and viola player, also added a specific harmony to the sound, playing off of the violins with gorgeous accuracy. Judith Eissenberg, the second violinist, also displayed amazing talent and dexterity, but it was Daniel Stepner at first violin who stole the heart of this piece. Stepner's distinct sound escalated the perfect pitch of the movement, and his use of the emphatic and soft pizzicato was simply charming.

The second piece, Alban Berg's Quartet, Op.3 was, unfortunately, not my favorite. The dissonance the composer attempted to capture was difficult to warm to, and the extensive use of cello on the song is far too taxing on the harmony. The quartet's performance was excellent, however, and their capture of every note was still undeniable in this somewhat unnerving case.

It was Beethoven's String Quartet in B-Flat major that stole the show with its ever-mutating theme, managing to be both stunning and meticulously executed. It seemed that the quartet knows this piece well, and the music seemed to pour out of the very pores of the recital hall.
Gordon once again displayed his aptitude in this piece, providing a beautiful display of sound and soul. Nothing can be said about this piece aside from the fact that it simply ravished the audience, drawing every nerve of the listener to every methodical plucking and illustrious bow movement.

The Lydian String Quartet are in a class of musicians who are unparalleled in their "interpretive mastery" of older pieces and enrapturing sounds. It is easy to see why this award-winning group is simply the best at what they do.