20th Century Austria: Alban Berg & Arnold Schoenberg

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of early 20th-century Austrian music with the Duke Quartet's captivating album, "20th Century Austria: Alban Berg & Arnold Schoenberg." This exquisite collection, released on March 20, 2014, under Ameritz Music Ltd., offers a profound exploration of two seminal composers who shaped the course of classical music.

The album is a journey through the intricate and expressive compositions of Alban Berg and Arnold Schoenberg, featuring the Duke Quartet's masterful interpretation of Berg's "Lyric Suite" and Schoenberg's "Verklarte Nacht" (Transfigured Night), Op. 4. The "Lyric Suite" unfolds in six movements, each with its own distinct character, from the playful "Allegretto gioviale" to the intense "Adagio appassionato" and the haunting "Largo desolato." Schoenberg's "Verklarte Nacht," a string sextet transformed for string quartet, completes this compelling musical narrative.

Spanning a total of 59 minutes, this album is a testament to the Duke Quartet's technical prowess and emotional depth. Their nuanced performances bring to life the complex harmonies and innovative structures that define these works, offering both seasoned classical enthusiasts and curious newcomers a chance to appreciate the genius of Berg and Schoenberg.