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Still, many younger quartets have maintained, and even raised, the traditions of excellence and inquisitiveness.
Thats one thing that gives us hope for the future, says cellist Paul Watkins.
Theres a level of instrumental skill among many young quartet players that is sort of at its height.
(Only the Juilliard Quartet still exists, though its membership has turned over many times.)
That was it, until Watkins replaced Finckel in 2013.)
As a business, the touring string quartet has become an increasingly difficult proposition to maintain.
Revenue from recordings long ago dropped to nominal levels.
They occasionally ranged outside their comfort zone, venturing into contemporary music and theatrical productions.
And, Watkins insists, that dynamism hasnt waned.
The challenge of maintaining a high technical standard as ones body ages makes these pieces all the more interesting.
Theres still plenty of energy left.
