German Conversation · Level 26
90 words
German word
Streichquartett
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈʃtʁaɪ̯çkvaɐ̯ˌtɛt/
Meaning
- neuter nounstring quartet
Example
Viele Streichquartette sind schwierig zu spielen.
Many string quartets are difficult to play.
More examples
Das Streichquartett probt intensiv für das Debütkonzert.
The string quartet is rehearsing intensively for its debut concert.
Core concept
Four bowed-string voices form a balanced musical team: two violins above a viola and cello, either in performance or preserved in a score.
Common phrases
ein Streichquartett aufführen
perform a string quartet
ein Streichquartett komponieren
compose a string quartet
in einem Streichquartett spielen
play in a string quartet
Similar words
Quartett: A group of four instrumentalists performing together.
Kammermusik: Classical music written for small groups in an intimate setting.
Ensemble: A performing group made up of several musicians.
Orchester: A large performing group with many instrumentalists.
Definition in German
Streichquartett nennt man sowohl die klassische Besetzung mit zwei Geigen, einer Bratsche und einem Cello als auch das dafür geschriebene Quartettwerk.
Word origin
The compound joins German Streich, related to streichen for the bowing action, with Quartett, a borrowing from Italian quartetto based on Latin quartus, 'fourth'.
Usage tips
- Streichquartett is neuter, so the forms are das Streichquartett and, in the plural, die Streichquartette.