Boughton: String Quartets & Oboe Quartet No. 1

Rutland Boughton, a name that resonates with operatic brilliance, extends his musical prowess beyond the stage with this captivating album, "Boughton: String Quartets & Oboe Quartet No. 1". Released on May 1, 1997, under the Hyperion label, this collection is a testament to Boughton's versatility and his ability to weave enchanting narratives through instrumental music.

The album opens with the "String Quartet in F Major 'From the Welsh Hills'", a four-movement piece that paints vivid landscapes from the valleys and hilltops of Wales. The quartet's journey culminates in a satirical conversation and a song that echoes the spirit of the hills. Following this, the "Oboe Quartet No. 1" unfolds in three movements, each one a dance of allegro vivace, giocoso, and a soulful andante con variazione.

The second string quartet, "On Greek Folk Songs", is a four-movement exploration of Greek mythology and culture. From the Apollonian and Dionysian movements to the mournful threnody and the sensual Aphrodisian, Boughton's interpretation of Greek folk songs is both profound and evocative.

The album concludes with "3 Songs Without Words for Oboe Quartet", a trio of delicate, playful, and languid pieces that showcase the oboe's expressive range. The album's total duration is 79 minutes and 6 seconds, a journey through Boughton's musical landscapes that is as engaging as it is enlightening. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.