Prelude in E minor (from 24 Preludes and Fugues, Op.87, No. 4)-by Dmitry Shostakovich Arranged by Fillipe Mendel

A carefully crafted arrangement of Dmitri Shostakovich’s Prelude in E minor, Op. 87, No. 4, from his monumental collection 24 Preludes and Fugues, adapted for string quartet.

Composed in 1950–1951, the 24 Preludes and Fugues, Op. 87, reflects Shostakovich’s profound understanding of counterpoint, tonal organization, and the expressive possibilities of keyboard writing. The Prelude in E minor is characterized by its introspective atmosphere, expressive melodic lines, and subtle harmonic language, revealing the composer’s ability to create emotional depth through clarity and restraint.

This arrangement translates the original piano texture into an intimate chamber setting for two violins, viola, and cello. Particular attention has been given to the distribution of melodic material, harmonic support, inner voices, and instrumental balance, allowing each member of the quartet to participate meaningfully in the musical dialogue.

The arrangement seeks to preserve the contemplative character, expressive phrasing, and structural integrity of Shostakovich’s original while exploring the rich colors and natural resonance of the string quartet. The result is a refined and expressive interpretation that highlights the work’s lyrical intensity and contrapuntal detail.

Ideal for concert performances, chamber music programs, recitals, and educational ensembles, this arrangement offers string players the opportunity to experience one of Shostakovich’s most evocative preludes from a fresh and intimate perspective.