Ge, Gan-Ru: String Quartets No. 1, "Fu", No. 4, "Angel Suite" and No. 5, "Fall of Baghdad"

Gan-Ru Ge's album, "String Quartets No. 1, 'Fu', No. 4, 'Angel Suite' and No. 5, 'Fall of Baghdad'," is a captivating exploration of diverse musical landscapes, released on June 30, 2009, under the Naxos label. This hour-long collection showcases Ge's remarkable ability to blend profound emotional depth with intricate compositional techniques, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.

The album opens with "String Quartet No. 1, 'Fu' (Prose Poem)," a piece that sets the tone for the journey ahead, followed by the ethereal and multi-faceted "String Quartet No. 4, 'Angel Suite'." This quartet is divided into four distinct movements, each evoking different celestial beings and moods: "Cherub," "Gnomes," "Prayer," and "Angel's March." Ge's mastery of the string quartet form is evident in the delicate interplay of the instruments and the evocative storytelling.

The final piece, "String Quartet No. 5, 'Fall of Baghdad'," is a monumental work divided into three movements: "Abyss," "Music from Heaven," and "Desolation." This quartet is a powerful and poignant reflection on the complexities of human experience, blending moments of intense drama with serene beauty. Each movement is further divided into subsections, creating a rich tapestry of sound and emotion.

Gan-Ru Ge's compositions are characterized by their technical sophistication and emotional resonance, making this album a standout in the contemporary classical music scene. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling and rewarding listening experience.