We are thrilled to welcome back Romsey favourites, the Goethe String Quartet, for WinterFest 2026 this January. Over the years, the quartet has become a cherished part of the festival, known for their warmth, clarity, and the way they connect with audiences and young musicians alike. This year’s programme promises a weekend of music full of colour, energy, and invention, including Bartók’s Romanian Dances performed with local young musicians, Eleanor Alberga’s Second Quartet, and well loved quartets by Ravel, Mozart, Bartók and Brahms. For the first time, violinist Luke Hsu will give a talk on Bartók’s Fourth Quartet on Saturday 24th, offering a fascinating insight into one of the twentieth century’s great quartets prior to its performance on Sunday afternoon, and the festival also features a masterclass with the Florens String Quartet, guided by Goethe cellist Rainer Crosett.
The Goethe Quartet’s commitment to the local community goes beyond the concert hall. They will be visiting schools across the Test Valley, bringing world-class music to children and inspiring the next generation of musicians. Their engagement with young players has always been a highlight of the festival, creating moments of excitement, curiosity, and shared musical discovery. For those further afield, the quartet will perform in an exclusive London fundraiser hosted by Peter Tompkins in the St Pancras Clocktower, a stunning and rare venue with panoramic views of the city.
