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PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Beethoven Mixtape
In 2025, as we celebrate ten years together as a professional ensemble, we are excited to present Beethoven Mixtape — a project that explores the musical network surrounding Beethoven through a new perspective.

This is a programme of carefully selected movements by composers who influenced, were influenced by, or were in close contact with Beethoven. These include names both familiar and lesser known: F. Ries, C. Czerny, A. Reicha, J. Haydn, J. N. Hummel, Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn, A. Eberl, L. Cherubini, A. Salieri, L. Spohr, N. Zmeskall, and E. Mayer. Developed in collaboration with Sheffield’s Music in the Round and writer and broadcaster Dr Katy Hamilton — whose expertise has shaped the narrative and repertoire choices — the programme aims to illuminate the lesser-known threads of musical influence and mentorship surrounding Beethoven. By highlighting these connections, we seek to build interest in neglected repertoire and provide the historical context that brings the music to life.

When exploring unfamiliar music, we often find that while individual movements can be exceptionally beautiful or original, the complete work may not be suitable for performance. The format of this project gives us the flexibility to showcase these outstanding movements, many of which might otherwise remain overlooked, allowing us to share musical gems not typically included in traditional programmes.

The programme will be contextualised through spoken contributions by Katy Hamilton, whose historical insights and storytelling will help bring the music to life. She will talk about the composers' relationships with Beethoven (and each other), and the musical world they inhabited. This will be presented through informal talks, programme notes and other engaging materials to maximise audience enjoyment and understanding. Our aim is to connect with both seasoned listeners and those newer to classical music, offering an accessible narrative that brings Beethoven’s creative world to life.

We are delighted to be collaborating with Music in the Round as part of our ongoing role as Visiting Quartet. With their support and network, we will take Beethoven Mixtape to venues across the country, including communities where access to high-quality chamber music is limited.

With the exception of Sheffield, all tour locations are designated Arts Council England “priority places”:
White Rock Theatre, Hastings
Junction, Goole, East Yorkshire
CAST, Doncaster
The Crucible, Sheffield
Mansfield Palace Theatre
Concert dates are currently being finalised.

The flexibility of the programme means it can continue to evolve over time, with the potential for new repertoire and narrative elements to be introduced in future iterations. We see exciting opportunities to expand Beethoven Mixtape over the next couple of years and reach more venues across the UK and internationally — particularly in the lead-up to the Beethoven 2027 anniversary year.