Gerhard: Complete String Quartets & Chaconne

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Roberto Gerhard's chamber music with this comprehensive collection of his string quartets and solo violin chaconne. Released in 2013, this album features the Arditti Quartet, renowned for their precision and expressive depth, delivering a powerful performance of Gerhard's String Quartets No. 1 and No. 2. The album also includes a stunning rendition of Gerhard's Chaconne for Solo Violin, a piece that showcases the composer's unique take on twelve-tone technique.

Roberto Gerhard, a Spanish composer known for his innovative and expressive works, crafted these pieces with a deep understanding of both traditional and modern musical languages. The String Quartets No. 1 and No. 2, composed in 1932 and 1935 respectively, are rich in texture and harmony, reflecting Gerhard's early influences and his evolving style. The Chaconne for Solo Violin, composed in 1936, is a tour de force for the soloist, demanding both technical virtuosity and profound musical insight.

This album, produced by Damien Pousset and released under the Aeon label, spans a duration of 54 minutes, offering a concise yet comprehensive overview of Gerhard's chamber music. The Arditti Quartet's performance is marked by its clarity, intensity, and technical brilliance, making this recording an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are familiar with Gerhard's work or discovering it for the first time, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.

21 januari 2013

2013 Aeon

About Roberto Gerhard

Roberto Gerhard, born in 1896 in Valls, Catalonia, was a pioneering composer who bridged the musical traditions of Spain and Britain. Initially studying piano with the renowned Enrique Granados and composition with Felipe Pedrell, Gerhard's musical journey took a significant turn when he became a pupil of Arnold Schoenberg in Vienna and Berlin. This exposure to Schoenberg's innovative techniques deeply influenced Gerhard's own compositional style, leading him to become a central figure in the Catalan avant-garde upon his return to Barcelona in 1928.

Gerhard's music is a rich tapestry of influences, blending Catalan folk music with modern tonal and serial styles. His works span a wide range of genres, including ballets, operas, symphonies, and groundbreaking electronic compositions. He was one of the first electronic composers based in the UK, pushing the boundaries of what music could be. Throughout his career, Gerhard collaborated with notable figures such as Pablo Casals and Joan Miró, further enriching his artistic legacy. His contributions to the world of music are celebrated for their innovation and cultural depth, making Roberto Gerhard one of the most prominent Spanish composers of the 20th century.