“Never had his own music made such an impression on him!” When Beethoven composed his String Quartet No. 13, he was “truly in the tears of melancholy.” Sadness is a feeling that hits everyone at one point or another. Beethoven’s piece, equally emotional and visionary, breaks away from traditional forms while holding tight to sentiments that resonate universally. Though written during a tumultuous time in Schumann’s career, his piano quartet surprises with its sunny and delightful character. It follows Valerie Coleman’s Rubispheres for flute, clarinet, and bassoon—a rhythmic depiction of an exciting day in Lower Manhattan and a soulful night in Washington Heights. Come early and enjoy a complimentary glass of wine before the performance, starting at 6:30pm.