Benjamin Falk (New York, 1853 - 1925)
Kneisel Quartet, 1891-1899
Albumen print , 20.3 x 25.2 cm (8 x 9 15/16 in.)
General admission for children 17 years and under is always free
Yellow Room
Commentary
Violinist Franz Kneisel, who served as concertmaster and assistant conductor to the Boston Symphony Orchestra for two decades, was among the local musicians who enjoyed Isabella Stewart Gardner’s support. An enterprising and exacting performer and teacher, Kneisel founded an eponymous quartet in 1885, which became the leading string ensemble in the United States until its dissolution in 1917. The Kneisel Quartette performed for two full seasons between 1908 and 1910 at her museum, playing a range of musical selections. All of these performances were open to the public.