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What is a string quartet?

In the Classical period, string quartets were a popular form of chamber music that was composed to be performed in the home of a monarch or aristocrat.

Instruments

A string quartet is a small group of performers, made up of:

• two violins
• one viola
• one cello

Structure and form

Most string quartets are in four movements. The standard Classical form is:

• 1st movement: Allegro (fast) in sonata form
• 2nd movement: Slow
• 3rd movement: Minuet and Trio
• 4th movement: Allegro