Quartet No. 2, Nocturne by Alekander Borodin

Borodin’s Quartet No. 2, Nocturne: A Romantic Masterpiece in Original and Piano Transcription

Alexander Borodin’s Nocturne from String Quartet No. 2 in D Major is a jewel of Russian Romantic chamber music. Composed in 1881 as a 20th-anniversary gift for his wife, Ekaterina Protopova, the quartet reflects their early romance in Heidelberg. The Nocturne, with its lyrical cello melody and rich harmonic language, is celebrated for its emotional depth and technical elegance. Its main theme, often described as songlike and sensuous, has inspired countless transcriptions, including the popular Eb Major piano arrangement (Wikipedia, 2025; Viola Online, n.d.).

Structured as a gentle Andante, the Nocturne features a serene main theme, an agitated middle section, and a return to its peaceful opening. Borodin’s use of canon between the cello and violin adds sophistication, while the chromatic bass line lends a dreamy, hypnotic quality. The piece’s popularity extends beyond classical circles: its theme was adapted for the Broadway musical Kismet as “And This Is My Beloved,” and it remains a favorite for both string ensembles and solo piano (Hollywood Bowl, n.d.).

For pianists, the Eb Major transcription preserves the original’s lyrical beauty while adapting it to the piano’s expressive range. The piece is accessible to intermediate players, focusing on phrasing, dynamics, and balance between melody and accompaniment. The sheet music is available on Piano Marvel, making it a rewarding addition to any repertoire.

To experience the Nocturne in its original string quartet form, watch this iconic performance by the Borodin Quartet:

For the piano transcription, explore this beautiful rendition:

Borodin’s Nocturne transcends its origins, offering a timeless exploration of romance and melancholy. Its adaptability—from the original string quartet to the piano transcription—makes it a versatile piece for both performance and study. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance, its lyrical beauty, or its technical accessibility, this work invites musicians and listeners alike to connect with the emotional core of Russian Romantic music.

Which version of the Nocturne resonates most with you? Do you prefer the intimacy of the string quartet, or the expressive possibilities of the piano transcription?

References

Wikipedia. (2025, December 4). String Quartet No. 2 (Borodin). Retrieved February 11, 2026, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/String_Quartet_No._2_(Borodin)

Viola Online. (n.d.). Borodin’s “Nocturne” from String Quartet No. 2. Retrieved February 11, 2026, from https://www.violaonline.com/unit4_10.html

Hollywood Bowl. (n.d.). String Quartet No. 2, Alexander Borodin. Retrieved February 11, 2026, from https://www.hollywoodbowl.com/musicdb/pieces/3705/string-quartet-no-2