played by The Virtuoso String Quartet:
Marjorie Hayward (violin), Edwin Virgo (violin), John Yewe Dyer
(viola), Cedric Sharpe (cello)
The ' Biscay ' Quartet is probably the best known of McEwen's string quartets. Although it bears titles for each movement, the composer has not offered any definite programme, but the work is permeated with the atmosphere of the Atlantic coast of France, as is indicated by the picturesque titles of the three movements.
Toreador's Prayer
The subject of Turina's Quartet No. 2, ' The Toreador's Prayer ', is a picturesque one. Attached to every bull-ring in Spain is a private chapel for the use of bullfighters. A toreador before he makes his entrance into the ring enters this chapel and offers up a prayer for his success and safe return. This is a solemn ritual in the dangerous life of the bullfighter and one that he never misses.
This short movement was originally composed for four lutes and later transcribed for string quartet.