Boccherini: Guitar Quintets

Immerse yourself in the elegant and refined world of Luigi Boccherini's guitar quintets with this exquisite collection released by Deutsche Grammophon. This album features three of Boccherini's most celebrated guitar quintets, showcasing his mastery of chamber music and his unique ability to blend the guitar with string instruments.

The album opens with Quintet No. 4 in D Major, G. 448, also known as the "Fandango." This quintet is renowned for its lively and spirited final movement, the "Fandango," which captures the essence of Spanish folk music with its rhythmic energy and vibrant melodies. The quintet also includes a serene "Pastorale" and a somber "Grave assai," demonstrating Boccherini's versatility and depth as a composer.

Next is Quintet No. 9 in C Major, G. 453, titled "La ritirata di Madrid." This quintet is notable for its dramatic and evocative final movement, which depicts the retreat of the French army from Madrid. The album also includes Quintet No. 7 in E Minor, G. 451, a work that showcases Boccherini's skill in creating intricate and harmonious textures.

Recorded with meticulous attention to detail, this album offers a rich and immersive experience of Boccherini's music. The performances are brought to life by La Magnifica Comunita, an ensemble known for their expressive and nuanced interpretations. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection of Boccherini's guitar quintets is sure to captivate and inspire.

Luigi Boccherini, born in Lucca, Italy, in 1743, was a virtuoso cellist and a prolific composer whose music bridged the gap between the Baroque and Classical eras. Hailing from a family of artists, Boccherini's musical journey took him across Europe, where he served various royal patrons and left an indelible mark on the world of chamber music. His compositions, characterized by their charming, light, and optimistic Rococo style, often reflect the influence of Spanish guitar traditions, a testament to his extensive time spent in Spain.

Boccherini is perhaps best known for his string quintets and guitar quintets, which showcased his innovative approach to harmony and form. His Cello Concerto in B flat major, though long known in an altered version, has been restored to its original brilliance, offering a glimpse into his virtuosic prowess on the instrument. Beyond his instrumental works, Boccherini also composed vocal pieces, including the zarzuela "Clementina," his sole complete stage work.

Throughout his career, Boccherini's music retained a courtly and galante style, even as he matured away from the major European musical centers. His influence on the development of the string quartet and quintet is undeniable, and his works continue to captivate audiences with their elegance and charm. Despite facing poverty in his later years, Boccherini's legacy endures through his extensive and beautifully crafted musical output, which includes symphonies, chamber works, and vocal compositions.