Immerse yourself in the captivating world of French chamber music with Quatuor Via Nova's latest release, "Fauré & Chausson: Quatuors à cordes." This exquisite album, released on December 16, 2022, under the Warner Classics label, showcases the ensemble's mastery of the string quartet genre, offering a compelling journey through the works of two prominent French composers, Gabriel Fauré and Ernest Chausson.
The album opens with Fauré's String Quartet in E Minor, Op. 121, a late work that exemplifies the composer's refined harmonic language and lyrical elegance. The quartet's performance is marked by a delicate balance between intensity and restraint, bringing out the subtle nuances of Fauré's writing. Following this, the ensemble tackles Chausson's String Quartet in C Minor, Op. 35, a work that, despite its early completion, was left unfinished by the composer. The third movement, "Gaiement et pas trop vite," was later completed by Vincent d'Indy, adding an intriguing layer to this already complex piece. Quatuor Via Nova's interpretation is both sensitive and dynamic, capturing the work's unique blend of passion and introspection.
With a total duration of 55 minutes, this album is a testament to Quatuor Via Nova's technical prowess and artistic insight. Their performances are characterized by a deep understanding of the composers' intentions, coupled with a fresh and engaging approach that breathes new life into these timeless works. Whether you're a seasoned chamber music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.