Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Ludwig van Beethoven's middle string quartets with this captivating album, "Beethoven: Middle String Quartets Nos 7 - 11." Released on January 1, 1992, under Warner Classics International, this collection showcases the genius of Beethoven during a pivotal period of his compositional career.
Spanning a generous 2 hours and 46 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through Beethoven's String Quartets Nos. 7 to 11, including the renowned "Razumovsky" quartets (Nos. 7, 8, and 9), the "Harp" Quartet (No. 10), and the intense "Quartetto serioso" (No. 11). Each quartet is a masterclass in composition, demonstrating Beethoven's innovative approach to form, harmony, and expression.
The "Razumovsky" quartets, dedicated to Count Razumovsky, are notable for their Russian themes and intricate structures, while the "Harp" Quartet earns its name from the unique pizzicato effects that mimic the sound of a harp. The "Quartetto serioso," though shorter, is no less profound, with its intense emotional depth and complex counterpoint.
This album is a testament to Beethoven's enduring influence on classical music, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for both casual listeners and devoted fans of chamber music. The performances are meticulously crafted, capturing the essence of Beethoven's vision and bringing his middle string quartets to life with clarity and passion. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur of classical music or a newcomer eager to explore the depths of Beethoven's genius, this album is a treasure trove of musical brilliance.
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": II. Allegretto vivace e sempre scherzandoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": III. Adagio molto e mestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": IV. Thème russe. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": II. Molto adagioLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": III. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": IV. Finale. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": I. Introduzione. Andante con moto - Allegro vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": II. Andante con moto quasi allegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": III. Menuetto. GraziosoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": IV. Allegro moltoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": I. Poco adagio - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": II. Adagio ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": III. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": IV. Allegretto con variazioniLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": II. Allegretto ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": III. Allegro assai vivace, ma seriosoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": IV. Larghetto espressivo - Allegretto agitatoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet