The string quartet is considered to be the highest expression of chamber music, where total control of individual technique and expression need to join forms of behaviour ensuring continuity in the work of the whole ensemble.
The Fiesole Music school has decided to set up a new European level specialisation course, to further enhance this
musical form, called The European Quartet Academy, whose roots are in the foundation of the school itself by Piero Farulli, viola player in the Quartetto Italiano. Its main aim is to train already existing string quartets with a significant CV. These ensembles will thus have the opportunity of developing their capabilities in continuous contact with
experiences and practitioners from the string quartet and general musical environment, by means of various activities, such as: Learning various performance styles with classes. Plans for the future include meetings between scholars and quartet players to study comparatively various string playing schools over time, including those of Geminiani, Tartini, Hummel, Quantz etc.; Meetings with contemporary musicians and composers, with field work; In depth analysis of works under study; Work with original materials and sources of these works; Workshop on improvisation and knowledge of ethnic music closely connected or not connected to written notes; study of recording techniques with possible associated course for recording technicians; Performance technique, with opportunities for public performance and study of audio and video recordings.