In classical music, a string sextet is a composition written for six string instruments, or a group of six musicians who perform such a composition. Most string sextets have been written for an ensemble consisting of two violins, two violas, and two cellos.

Example ensemble layout

Notable string sextets

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Among the earliest works in this form are the nine string sextets Op. 23 by Luigi Boccherini, written in 1776. Other notable string sextets include the String Sextets Op. 18 and 36 by Brahms, Dvořák's Op. 48, Tchaikovsky Souvenir de Florence, Op. 70, Schoenberg's Verklärte Nacht, Op. 4, Erich Wolfgang Korngold Op. 10, Erwin Schulhoff's String Sextet of 1924, and Charles Wuorinen's String Sextet of 1989.

Less usual combinations

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More unusual combinations for a string sextet:

Selected list of string sextets

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See also

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References

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Further reading

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  • The New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians ed. S. Sadie (London: Macmillan, 1980)
  • Naxos Music Library (www.NaxosMusicLibrary.com)