Experience the captivating artistry of Antje Weithaas and an ensemble of renowned musicians in this live recording of two iconic string octets. This album presents the works of Felix Mendelssohn and George Enescu, performed with virtuosity and depth.
The album opens with Mendelssohn's Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, a piece composed when the young prodigy was just 16 years old. The octet is a tour de force of youthful energy and optimism, filled with intricate harmonies and melodic brilliance. The performance features a stellar lineup of violinists, including Antje Weithaas, Christian Tetzlaff, Isabelle Faust, and Lisa Batiashvili, alongside violists Ori Kam and Rachel Roberts, and cellists Tanja Tetzlaff, Quirine Viersen, and Gustav Rivinius. This ensemble brings a fresh and dynamic interpretation to Mendelssohn's masterpiece, showcasing the work's technical demands and emotional depth.
Following Mendelssohn's octet is George Enescu's Octet in C Major, Op. 7. Composed when Enescu was just 17, this work is a lesser-known gem that complements Mendelssohn's octet beautifully. Enescu's octet is characterized by its rich textures and lyrical melodies, offering a contrasting yet equally compelling listening experience.
Recorded live, this album captures the energy and spontaneity of a live performance, providing an intimate glimpse into the musicians' artistry. The album's duration of 71 minutes offers a substantial and rewarding listening experience, making it a valuable addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises to delight and inspire.
Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: I. Allegro moderato, ma con fuoco - LiveFelix Mendelssohn, Ori Kam, Rachel Roberts, Tanja Tetzlaff, Antje Weithaas, Christian Tetzlaff, Isabelle Faust, Lisa Batiashvili, Quirine Viersen
Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: II. Andante - LiveFelix Mendelssohn, Christian Tetzlaff, Isabelle Faust, Lisa Batiashvili, Antje Weithaas, Quirine Viersen, Tanja Tetzlaff, Rachel Roberts, Ori Kam
Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: III. Scherzo (Allegro leggierissimo) - LiveFelix Mendelssohn, Tanja Tetzlaff, Rachel Roberts, Ori Kam, Lisa Batiashvili, Isabelle Faust, Christian Tetzlaff, Antje Weithaas, Quirine Viersen
Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, MWV R20: IV. Presto - LiveFelix Mendelssohn, Lisa Batiashvili, Isabelle Faust, Christian Tetzlaff, Antje Weithaas, Ori Kam, Rachel Roberts, Tanja Tetzlaff, Quirine Viersen
Octet in C Major, Op. 7: I. Très modéré - LiveGeorge Enescu, Gustav Rivinius, Antoine Tamestit, Quirine Viersen, Isabelle Faust, Christian Tetzlaff, Antje Weithaas, Kathy Gowers, Rachel Roberts
Octet in C Major, Op. 7: II. Très fougueux - LiveGeorge Enescu, Gustav Rivinius, Antoine Tamestit, Rachel Roberts, Antje Weithaas, Christian Tetzlaff, Isabelle Faust, Kathy Gowers, Quirine Viersen
Octet in C Major, Op. 7: III. Lentement - LiveGeorge Enescu, Quirine Viersen, Gustav Rivinius, Antoine Tamestit, Rachel Roberts, Antje Weithaas, Christian Tetzlaff, Isabelle Faust, Kathy Gowers
Octet in C Major, Op. 7: IV. Mouvement de valse bien rythmée - LiveGeorge Enescu, Quirine Viersen, Isabelle Faust, Christian Tetzlaff, Antje Weithaas, Kathy Gowers, Rachel Roberts, Antoine Tamestit, Gustav Rivinius