Comprising over fifty transcriptions, arrangements and original compositions, the Finckel Cello Quartet Collection is the inspiration of ‘cellist George Finckel. At Bennington College, in the late 1950’s, he began incorporating cello ensemble playing as an integral part of his teaching with resounding success. Soon after, in collaboration with his sons Michael and Chris, and nephew David, the Finckel ‘Cello Quartet came into existence.

Over the years colleagues and family members have contributed numerous transcriptions and original compositions for ‘cello ensembles of varying sizes. These works, ranging from transcriptions of 14th and 15th century polyphony to compositions written by living composers, include treasures not often encountered by ‘cellists today. Among these, the chorale preludes of Bach and the choral works Victoria, Isaac, Palestrina and Brahms are truly some of the world’s most inspired musical creations.

As a teaching tool, the collection provides many useful resources for the developing musician. The varying difficulty of the individual parts allow students of all levels and capabilities to work together and to be appropriately challenged on an individual basis. Beginning and intermediate level students are given an opportunity to put what they have learned into a musical context, to interact with fellow ‘cellists in making musical decisions and to share in enjoying the fruits of their efforts.

The collection, containing works of the highest quality, is marvelous for professional use as well. In over thirty years of concert activity the Finckel family Cello Quartet has moved and delighted audiences with performances of these beautiful compositions and it has been their great pleasure to continually rediscover and explore the extraordinary music in them.

It is with joyous anticipation that they offer this collection for the exploration and enjoyment of ‘cellists throughout the world.

Collections currently available: J. S. Bach, Johannes Brahms, Colonial American Choral Work, Chaconnes by Couperin and Chambonnieres, Christoph Demantius, Giovanni Gabrieli, Heinrich Isaac, Jacob Obrecht, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Henry Purcell, and Tomas Luis de Victoria; Bach CD.