The Teatro alla Scala string quartet was formed in 1953 and has been a triumphant force in chamber music for decades. After a hiatus of several years, in 2001, four young musicians, leading members of the Orchestra with international soloist awards to their credit, decided to revive the historic ensemble. Since then they have performed at major festivals in Europe and America, have developed a strong recording activity and are now among the best quartets in the world. As fine representatives of Italian music they present Puccini’s soulful Chrysanthemums and Beethoven’s youthful Fourth Quartet. In collaboration with the versatile Scottish pianist Alasdair Beatson, who perfectly combines a soloist career while remaining a member of chamber music ensembles, they perform César Franck’s stirring Quintet, arguably one of the most impressive romantic piano quintets.