Immerse yourself in the profound and introspective world of Ludwig van Beethoven's late string quartets with this captivating album, recorded in May 1991 at the Rosslyn Hill Unitarian Chapel in London. This collection brings together Beethoven's String Quartets Nos. 12 to 16, showcasing the composer's remarkable late-period creativity and innovation.
Beethoven's late string quartets are widely regarded as some of his most profound and introspective works. Composed during the final years of his life, these quartets reflect his deep musical insights and his unique approach to composition. The quartets on this album, Op. 127, Op. 131, Op. 130, Op. 132, and Op. 135, along with the monumental Grosse Fuge, Op. 133, represent a pinnacle of Beethoven's artistic achievement.
Each quartet is a journey in itself, filled with contrasts and depth. From the serene and lyrical passages to the intense and dramatic moments, Beethoven's late quartets offer a rich tapestry of musical expression. The album spans over three hours, providing a comprehensive exploration of these masterpieces.
This recording, produced by Arthur Johnson, captures the essence of Beethoven's late quartets with clarity and precision. The performances are nuanced and expressive, highlighting the intricate details and emotional depth of the music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Beethoven's works, this album offers a profound and rewarding listening experience.
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: I. Maestoso - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: II. Adagio ma non troppo e molto cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: III. Scherzando vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: IV. FinaleLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: I. Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: II. Allegro molto vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: III. Allegro moderatoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: IV. Andante ma non troppo e molto cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: V. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: VI. Adagio quasi un poco andanteLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: VII. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: I. Adagio ma non troppo - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: II. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: III. Andante con moto ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: IV. Alla danza tedesca. Allegro assaiLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: V. Cavatina. Adagio molto espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: VI. Finale. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: Grosse Fuge in B-Flat Major, Op. 133Ludwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: I. Assai sostenuto - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: II. Allegro ma non tantoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: III. Molto adagioLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: IV. Alla marcia, assai vivace & V. Finale. Allegro appassionatoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: I. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: II. VivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: III. Lento assai, cantante tranquilloLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: IV. Grave ma non troppo tratto - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet