Immerse yourself in the profound and introspective world of Ludwig van Beethoven's late string quartets with this exceptional collection released by Decca Music Group Ltd. in 2001. Spanning an impressive 3 hours and 34 minutes, this album encapsulates the essence of Beethoven's genius during his final creative period, offering a deep dive into his mastery of chamber music.
The album features five of Beethoven's late string quartets, each a testament to his evolving musical language and emotional depth. From the serene and lyrical String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127 to the monumental and complex String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135, every piece showcases Beethoven's unparalleled ability to blend technical brilliance with profound expression. Notably, the album includes the original finale of String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130, known as the "Grosse Fuge," Op. 133, which represents one of the pinnacles of Beethoven's creative output.
This collection is not just a compilation of Beethoven's late quartets but a journey through his artistic evolution. Each quartet is a world unto itself, filled with contrasting moods, intricate structures, and emotional resonance. The performances capture the essence of Beethoven's late style, characterized by its modern and impressionistic qualities, making this album a quintessential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library. Whether you're a seasoned Beethoven aficionado or a newcomer to his late works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: I. Maestoso – AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: II. Adagio, ma non troppo e molto cantabile – Andante con moto – Adagio molto espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: III. Scherzando vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127: IV. Finale. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: I. Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: II. Allegro molto vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: III. Allegro moderatoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: IV. Andante, ma non troppo e molto cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: V. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: VI. Adagio quasi un poco andanteLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131: VII. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: I. Adagio ma non troppo – AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: II. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: III. Andante con moto ma non troppo. Poco scherzandoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: IV. Alla danza tedesca. Allegro assaiLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: V. Cavatina. Adagio molto espressivoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130: VI. Finale. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: I. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: II. VivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: III. Lento assai, cantante e tranquilloLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135: IV. Der schwer gefasste Entschluss. Grave, ma non troppo tratto – AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: I. Assai sostenuto – AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: II. Allegro ma non tantoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: III. Molto adagio. Heiliger Dankgesang – Andante. Neue kraft fühlendLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: IV. Alla marcia, assai vivace – Più allegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132: V. Allegro appassionato – PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
Grosse Fuge, Op. 133: I. Overture – Fugue 1 – II. Meno mosso e moderato – III. Interlude – Fugue 2 – IV. Meno mosso e moderato – V. Allegro molto e con brio – VI. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
Vinylscout