For the final instalment in our four-part Beethoven quartet exploration, the works under scrutiny will be the impassioned A minor Quartet, Op. 132, with the transcendent ‘Sacred Song of Thanksgiving’ at its heart, and Beethoven’s last work, the Quartet in F, Op. 135, which outwardly returns to the compact dimensions and sociable wit of Haydn and Mozart. Anyone who has attended a previous Cambridge study event with the Fitzwilliam will know that we are in for a lively exchange of ideas!

As before, the study sessions, concert and dinners will be in Fitzwilliam College, situated between Huntingdon Road and Storeys Way (with entrances from both roads), and a 15-20-minute walk from Cambridge city centre. There is also a frequent bus service. I have again reserved ensuite rooms in the nearby Moller Centre, a modern hotel-cum- conference centre. Rooms look out over lawns, and guests have free Wi-fi/internet access. There is ample parking.

 FRIDAY 8 MAY

1.45 onwards Arrival at the Moller Centre, Storeys Way, Cambridge CB3ODE (01223 465562). I shall be in reception from 2.30.

3.00-5.30    Study session in Fitzwilliam College Auditorium (a 10-minute walk

from the Moller Centre) with myself and the Fitzwilliam Quartet.
There will be a break for tea/coffee, and time for questions
7.30 Dinner in Fitzwilliam College: three courses, including wine
(If we behave, the college may invite us to drinks beforehand)

 SATURDAY 9 MAY

10.30-1      Study session in Fitzwilliam College Auditorium, with break
6.00 Concert in Fitzwilliam College Auditorium (ends c 7.45):
Beethoven: Quartet in A Minor, Op. 132
                     Quartet in F major, Op. 135
8.00 Dinner in Fitzwilliam College (three courses, with wine)