Immerse yourself in the profound and introspective world of Ludwig van Beethoven's late string quartets, masterfully performed by the renowned Alban Berg Quartett. Released on EMI Classics in 2005, this collection encapsulates the essence of Beethoven's late period, offering a rich and varied exploration of his compositional genius.
The album spans five of Beethoven's late string quartets, from the lyrical and expansive Op. 127 to the introspective and profound Op. 135. Each quartet is a journey in itself, showcasing Beethoven's innovative spirit and emotional depth. The Alban Berg Quartett brings a nuanced and expressive interpretation to these works, highlighting the intricate interplay of the strings and the profound emotional resonance of the music.
The collection also includes the monumental Grosse Fuge, Op. 133, originally the final movement of the Op. 130 quartet but later published as a standalone work. This complex and challenging piece is a testament to Beethoven's bold experimentation and remains a cornerstone of the string quartet repertoire.
With a total duration of over three hours, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. The Alban Berg Quartett's impeccable technique and deep understanding of Beethoven's music make this a definitive recording of these late quartets. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Beethoven's works, this album offers a profound and enriching exploration of some of the most significant compositions in the string quartet literature.
(C) 2005 EMI Records Ltd.(P) 2005 The copyright in this sound recording is owned by EMI Records Ltd.
Tracks
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: I. Maestoso - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: II. Adagio ma non troppo, molto cantabileAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: III. Scherzando vivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: IV. FinaleAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: I. Adagio ma non troppo - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: II. PrestoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: III. Andante con moto, ma non troppoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: IV. Alla danza tedesca (Allegro assai)Alban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: V. Cavatina (Adagio molto espressivo)Alban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: VI. Finale (Allegro)Alban Berg Quartett
Grosse Fuge in B Flat Major, Op.133Alban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: I. Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: II. Allegro molto vivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: III. Andante moderatoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: IV. Andante ma non troppo e molto cantabileAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: V. PrestoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: VI. Adagio quasi un poco andanteAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: VII. AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: I. Assai sostenuto - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: II. Allegro ma non tantoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: III. Molto adagioAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: IV. Alla marcia, assai vivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: V. Allegro appasionatoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: I. AllegrettoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: II. VivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: III. Lento assai e cantante tranquilloAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: IV. Grave ma non troppo tratto - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
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