About the Author

Arnold Steinhardt is the first violinist and a founding member of the Guarneri Quartet. He lives in New York City with his wife and two children.

Reviews

"As one-fourth of what may be the longest-running string quartet in musical history, Arnold Steinhardt is ideally equipped to describe the life and times of a world-renowned musical ensemble. It's a wonderfully informative and entertaining memoir. Please read this book." --Gary Graffman, Curtis Institute Newsletter "I enjoyed this tremendously. Arnold Steinhardt's account of the joys and ordeals of a life chamber musi is charmingly written and marvelously entertaining. It is also very touching because one feels his love of music on every page." --Richard Goode "The Guaneri Quartet [is] known for the elegance, charm, clarity and passion of their playing, and Steinhardt's writting has all the same virtues." --Justin Davidson, Newsday

The Guarneri String Quartet, formed 35 years ago by Steinhardt, John Dalley, Michael Tree, and David Soyer, may owe its legendary longevity to any number of elements Steinhardt describes in this cheerful, informative chronicle. That they continue to "have fun" playing great music together may be fundamental to their continuance, but Steinhardt's readers will conclude that the aesthetic and intellectual growth such a long, vivacious, trusting association has afforded them is equally important. This is Steinhardt's musical autobiography, but in addition to commentary on the other quartet members and their interaction, it also contains Steinhardt's engaging musings on four-part music in general, amateur string players, and particular pieces of the repertoire. Recordings, a film, articles, and other books document the group's history, but this inside view from its first violinist, filled with new stories told with great happiness, will be welcomed by all who know and love their work. Recommended.‘Bonnie Jo Dopp, Univ. of Maryland Lib., College Park

"As one-fourth of what may be the longest-running string quartet in musical history, Arnold Steinhardt is ideally equipped to describe the life and times of a world-renowned musical ensemble. It's a wonderfully informative and entertaining memoir. Please read this book." --Gary Graffman, Curtis Institute Newsletter "I enjoyed this tremendously. Arnold Steinhardt's account of the joys and ordeals of a life chamber musi is charmingly written and marvelously entertaining. It is also very touching because one feels his love of music on every page." --Richard Goode "The Guaneri Quartet [is] known for the elegance, charm, clarity and passion of their playing, and Steinhardt's writting has all the same virtues." --Justin Davidson, Newsday