Element Quartet

The Element Quartet was a string quartet prominent in British musical life in the 1950s and 1960s. The members were Ernest Element and Sylvia Cleaver (violins), Dorothy Hemming (viola), and Norman Jones (cello). The Element Quartet was frequently broadcast on BBC radio.

The Element Quartet was particularly associated with the early string quartets of Robert Simpson. The quartet gave the premières of his first three string quartets; Quartet No.2 is dedicated to the Element Quartet, and Quartet No.3 is dedicated to their violist, Dorothy Hemming.

Recordings

• Robert Simpson: String Quartets Nos 1, 2 and 3 (from tapes and acetates in the collection of Robert Simpson, recorded ca. 1953/4). Pearl (Pavilion Records) GEM 0023 (1998).