Britannica
Sources used in this answer
What instruments make up a traditional string quartet?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
musical instrument
Children playing musical instruments.
A traditional string quartet is a chamber music ensemble composed of four instruments:
This configuration has been a predominant genre of chamber music since approximately 1750. While the term "quartet" can refer to various combinations of instruments or voices, it is most commonly associated with this specific string ensemble. In a mature classical string quartet, the music is written to allow for the equal participation of all four instruments.12