Carl Nielsen was the most important Danish composer born in the 19th century and his six symphonies have become part of the standard orchestral repertoire. Coming from poor parents he was largely self-taught as a composer, earning his living during his younger years as a violinist. Included in a large catalogue of compositions, ranging from largescale opera to simple instrumental works, are four published string quartets. Though at first they did not receive popular acclaim, they have, in more recent times, taken a place among the most significant chamber music compositions of the late 19th century.