Berkeley: String Quartets Nos. 1-3

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Lennox Berkeley's chamber music with this exquisite collection of his first three string quartets. Recorded by the acclaimed Maggini Quartet, this album offers a captivating journey through the composer's early career, showcasing his evolving style and mastery of the string quartet form.

Berkeley's String Quartet No. 1, Op. 6, composed in 1935, reveals the influence of his teacher, Nadia Boulanger, and the neoclassical trends of the time. The quartet's four movements, from the opening Allegro to the final Theme and Variations, demonstrate Berkeley's ability to blend classical structures with a distinctive, personal voice. The String Quartet No. 2, Op. 15, follows in 1941, exhibiting a more introspective and lyrical character, while the String Quartet No. 3, Op. 76, completed in 1959, reflects the composer's mature style, marked by its rhythmic vitality and harmonic richness.

This album, released by Naxos in 2007, is a testament to Berkeley's enduring appeal and the Maggini Quartet's exceptional artistry. Spanning over an hour of captivating music, this collection is an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library. The quartet's nuanced performances bring out the subtleties and depths of Berkeley's compositions, making this recording a true delight for both seasoned listeners and those new to his work.

11 december 2007

2007 Naxos

About Lennox Berkeley

Sir Lennox Berkeley, born into an aristocratic family in Oxford in 1903, stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of British music. His journey as a composer began at Oxford, where he studied foreign languages and crossed paths with the renowned Maurice Ravel. Ravel's encouragement led Berkeley to Paris, where he apprenticed under the esteemed Nadia Boulanger from 1927 to 1932. During this formative period, Berkeley befriended notable composers such as Francis Poulenc, Igor Stravinsky, and Darius Milhaud, influences that would shape his unique musical voice.

Berkeley's compositions, marked by light textures and piquant harmonies, span a wide range of genres, including operas, symphonies, chamber music, and songs. His neoclassical and serial styles reflect his deep connection to both British and French musical traditions. Among his notable works are "A Dinner Engagement," an opera that showcases his dramatic flair, and "Theme and Variations," a piece that has been performed at prestigious venues like the Wigmore Hall.

Beyond his musical achievements, Berkeley's personal life was equally intriguing. He converted to Roman Catholicism in 1929, a faith that would deeply influence his artistic output. His unconventional marriage and his connections with literary figures like W.H. Auden and musical luminaries such as Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears further enrich his legacy.

Berkeley's contributions to music were recognized with the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), and his works continue to be celebrated for their innovation and emotional depth. His diaries and writings offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a composer who bridged the gap between British and French musical traditions, leaving behind a rich tapestry of compositions that continue to inspire and captivate audiences.