Donizetti's String Quartet No.6 in g minor is an early work which was completed in 1819, while the composer was still studying at the Bolognese Conservatory. It is in four movements and opens with a pleasant Allegro which is followed by a charming Larghetto. The third movement is an exciting Presto and the work concludes with a good natured Allegro giusto.
Donizetti (1797-1848) was born in Bergamo, Italy of humble origins. His father was an assistant at the village pawnshop. In 1806, at the age of 9, he was able to attend a charitable school and there met the then famous composer, Simone Mayr, who became his mentor and lifelong friend. Donizetti is well-known, of course, as a composer for the opera. However, many will be surprised to learn that he did write a fair amount of chamber music, including 18 string quartets, some string quintets, piano trios, and an octet for winds and strings along with several other instrumental works.