Carter, E.: String Quartets Nos. 2, 3 and 4

Dive into the intricate and innovative world of Elliott Carter's string quartets with this captivating collection featuring his Second, Third, and Fourth String Quartets. Released in 2009, this album is a testament to Carter's enduring genius, coming just a year after his 100th birthday, and showcases his unique voice in the realm of avant-garde chamber music.

Elliott Carter, an American composer of remarkable longevity and creativity, is renowned for his complex and intellectually stimulating compositions. This album offers a deep exploration of his later style, characterized by its rhythmic intricacy, harmonic richness, and contrapuntal sophistication. Each quartet is a masterclass in modern composition, pushing the boundaries of traditional string quartet writing.

The Second String Quartet, composed in 1959, is a seminal work that established Carter's mature style. It features a series of contrasting movements and cadenzas, each exploring different textures and techniques. The Third String Quartet, from 1971, is notable for its dualistic structure, with two overlapping duos creating a complex polyphonic texture. The Fourth String Quartet, completed in 1986, continues Carter's exploration of rhythmic complexity and harmonic innovation.

Performed by the Pacifica Quartet, this recording captures the precision and energy of Carter's scores. The ensemble's technical virtuosity and musical insight bring out the full range of colors and textures in these demanding works. Whether you're a seasoned fan of contemporary classical music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.

Elliott Carter, a titan of 20th-century American music, is renowned for his innovative and distinctive compositions that blend European modernism with American ultra-modernism. Born in New York in 1908, Carter's prolific career spanned over seven decades, during which he created a vast array of orchestral, chamber, solo instrumental, and vocal works. His music is celebrated for its intricate exploration of tempo relationships and texture, earning him a place among the most influential composers of his time. Carter's accolades include two Pulitzer Prizes for his string quartets, and his monumental orchestral work, 'Symphonia: sum fluxae pretium spei', stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. With a career that defied conventional boundaries, Carter's compositions continue to inspire and challenge musicians and audiences alike, securing his status as a leading figure in modernist music.