Mendelssohn’s Octet: Music in the Making

Join Pitchstone Music for a rare opportunity to hear the internationally acclaimed Elias Quartet share their insight, imagination and experience with the wonderful young Elmore Quartet, exploring one of chamber music’s most exhilarating masterpieces.

The Elias are one of the great treasures of British musical life: a quartet whose warmth, expressive daring and depth of musical understanding have captivated audiences around the world. They are musicians we can feel proud to celebrate here in the UK - and we are delighted to welcome them to Leytonstone. Alongside them, the award-winning Elmore Quartet brings the energy, curiosity and commitment of an outstanding new generation.

Written when Mendelssohn was just sixteen, his glorious Octet bursts with the thrill of discovery. Eight string players weave together soaring melodies, dancing rhythms and moments of breathtaking tenderness. Its youthful exuberance is irresistible; its assurance and emotional depth are astonishing.

This open rehearsal offers something wonderfully different from a concert: the chance to hear ideas exchanged, phrases reconsidered and musical possibilities discovered, ahead of the following day’s performance at Kings Place. Come closer to the creative process and hear how extraordinary music takes shape.

Presented as part of Chamber Studio’s coaching work and hosted by Pitchstone Music, this is an invitation to everyone. No musical knowledge is needed - just curiosity.

Friday 6 November 2026
2–5pm and 6–8pm
Welsh Church, 881 High Road Leytonstone, London E11 1HR

Admission and refreshments are free. Donations are warmly welcomed.

Drop in for a little while or settle in for longer. You are welcome to come and go throughout either session.