J. Frederick Bridge | An Old Rat’s Tale | String Quartet

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Step into the whimsical world of Sir J. Frederick Bridge with this charming string quartet arrangement of his 1892 part-song An Old Rat’s Tale. This witty miniature tells the playful story of two rats in love.

In this fresh arrangement, the humor and lyricism of Bridge’s Victorian part-song are reimagined for two violins, viola, and cello, allowing chamber ensembles to capture the piece’s lighthearted character with new intimacy and color. The strings bring out the sly rhythmic interplay and lyrical charm of the original, while adding warmth and expressive nuance.

Perfect as a concert encore, educational performance, or lighthearted interlude, this quartet offers audiences a rare glimpse into the humorous side of late-Romantic English music. Both accessible and engaging, it’s a delightful addition to any chamber program seeking variety and charm.

String Quartet

1.      Violin

2.      Violin

3.      Viola

4.      Violoncello