Budapest String Quartet

String quartet

The Budapest String Quartet was a prominent string quartet that existed for five decades, from 1917 to 1967. Founded with a diverse membership of three Hungarian musicians and one Dutch musician, the ensemble underwent significant changes in its personnel over the years, ultimately consisting of four Russian musicians by the time of its dissolution.

Throughout its long career, the Budapest String Quartet left a lasting legacy through its numerous recordings and live performances. The quartet released a substantial number of recordings with renowned labels, including His Master's Voice and RCA Victor until 1938, and subsequently with Columbia Records from 1940 to 1967. Additionally, several of its live concerts were recorded at esteemed venues, such as the Library of Congress, providing a testament to the quartet's enduring musical heritage.