quartet
formkwor-TET
An ensemble of four musicians, or a composition written for four performers.
A quartet is a group of four musicians performing together, or a piece of music composed for four parts. The string quartet — two violins, viola, and cello — is one of the most important ensembles in classical music, developed by Haydn in the 18th century and elevated by Mozart, Beethoven, and Bartók into a vehicle for the most profound musical expression. Other quartet types include the piano quartet (piano, violin, viola, cello), saxophone quartet, and vocal quartet (soprano, alto, tenor, bass). In jazz, a quartet typically features a lead instrument with piano, bass, and drums. In barbershop singing, four voices harmonise in close harmony. The quartet format demands both individual skill and ensemble sensitivity, as each voice is fully exposed.