1. What is a string quartet?
    A string quartet is a musical ensemble of four acoustical wooden instruments that are all played with a bow. It includes:
-Two violins; The violin is the smallest member of the string family; it has the highest range in the quartet and is most easily recognized as the melodic instrument.
-One viola; The viola is slightly larger than the violin. It has a more mellow sound and slightly lower range and complements the violin melody in harmony.
-One cello;  Larger than both the violin and viola with an much lower range, the cello has a deep, rich sound and is played upright, resting between the cellist's knees. It is usually played as a solo instrument or as the bass voice in an ensemble.

The string quartet became prominent in the late 1700s and was popularized by the composer Franz Joseph Haydn. Many composers after him, such as Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Bartok and Shostakovich continued to compose for the string quartet. It continues to be a very popular configuration to this day. Recently, string quartet repertoire has expanded to include show tunes, jazz, rock, pop, African and other world music.

2. Where did The Birchwood String Quartet get its name?
Our name was inspired by the breathtaking birch tree forests near the shores of Lake Superior in northern Minnesota. It is the reflectiveness and beauty of these natural surroundings that is at the heart of our music.
   
3. Who made the recordings on this web site?
All sound files on this web site were recorded by members of the Birchwood String Quartet. Over the years we have had a few personnel changes so not all the recordings are with current members, but all the arrangements heard here are still in our repertoire.