Elgar: String Quartet – Bridge: Idylls – Walton: String Quartet - Coull Quartet

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of British chamber music with the Coull Quartet's captivating album, featuring works by Edward Elgar, Frank Bridge, and William Walton. Recorded in December 1993 at the acoustically renowned St Silas the Martyr in Kentish Town, London, this album showcases the quartet's exceptional artistry and deep understanding of these seminal works.

The album opens with Edward Elgar's profound String Quartet in E Minor, Op. 83, a work composed in the aftermath of World War I. This quartet is a testament to Elgar's mastery of the form, with its intricate harmonies and evocative melodies that reflect the composer's introspective mood during this period.

Following Elgar's quartet, the Coull Quartet presents Frank Bridge's Three Idylls for String Quartet, H. 67. These idylls are a delightful exploration of the quartet's expressive range, with each movement offering a unique blend of lyricism and virtuosity.

The album concludes with William Walton's String Quartet in A Minor, a work that exemplifies Walton's distinctive voice and innovative approach to composition. The quartet's performance of this work is marked by its clarity, precision, and deep musical insight.

Throughout the album, the Coull Quartet demonstrates a remarkable sensitivity to the nuances of each composer's style, delivering performances that are both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Whether you're a seasoned chamber music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

1 jul 1994

℗ 1994 Hyperion Records Limited

About Coull Quartet

The Coull Quartet, established in 1974 at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London under the tutelage of the esteemed Sidney Griller, is a distinguished English string quartet renowned for its rich musical journey and extensive repertoire. Comprising Roger Coull and Philip Gallaway on violins, Jonathan Barritt on viola, and Nicholas Roberts on cello, the quartet includes two of its original founding members, ensuring a deep and enduring musical connection.

Appointed as Quartet-in-Residence at the University of Warwick from 1977 to 2019, the Coull Quartet has left an indelible mark on the chamber music scene, both nationally and internationally. Their performances and broadcasts have captivated audiences across the UK, the Americas, Australia, China, India, and the Far East, showcasing their versatility and mastery of the string quartet genre.

With a career spanning over four decades, the Coull Quartet continues to inspire and educate, offering coaching and public events that reflect their commitment to musical excellence and community engagement. Their extensive tours and residencies have solidified their status as one of Britain's leading string quartets, making them a beloved and respected presence in the world of chamber music.