This modern day and age has its advantages. Being able to pull up almost any piece of music and listen to it instantly is a remarkable achievement... for a long time music was the quickening art form. Here and then gone.
What it must have been like in the late 18th century. To go to the opera to hear something that you knew you would never hear again. It makes a lot sense as to why quartets were so popular. Sheet music could be printed and sent around and a few skilled players could play the newest hits of the day.
