Gifts and Greetings

Celebrating four decades of extraordinary performances, the Arditti Quartet presents "Gifts and Greetings," a remarkable collection of contemporary chamber music released in 2016. This album is a testament to the quartet's enduring influence and the unique sound they have cultivated under the leadership of Irvine Arditti. Comprising 18 tracks, the album spans a rich and diverse landscape of avant-garde compositions, each a gift from composers who have been inspired by the Arditti Quartet's virtuosity and innovation.

"Gifts and Greetings" features 13 world premiere recordings, all composed specifically for the quartet's 40th anniversary. The Arditti Quartet, renowned for their collaborations with leading contemporary composers, delivers a captivating performance that showcases their technical prowess and artistic sensitivity. The album includes works by a variety of composers, each contributing a unique perspective to the ensemble's repertoire.

The Arditti Quartet, consisting of Irvine Arditti on first violin, Ashot Sarkissjan on second violin, Ralf Ehlers on viola, and Lucas Fels on cello, is joined by special guests Brice Pauset on harpsichord and Uri Caine on piano for select tracks, adding depth and variety to the performances. The album's duration of 72 minutes is filled with intricate compositions that challenge and delight the ear, making it a standout release in the world of contemporary chamber music.

Recorded in cooperation with Westdeutscher Rundfunk and released by Winter & Winter, "Gifts and Greetings" is a fitting tribute to the Arditti Quartet's legacy. Whether you are a seasoned fan of contemporary classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling journey through the cutting-edge compositions that have defined the Arditti Quartet's illustrious career.

The Arditti Quartet, founded in 1974 and led by the esteemed British violinist Irvine Arditti, is a pioneering force in the world of contemporary classical music. Renowned for their technical prowess and vast repertoire, the quartet has dedicated itself to championing the works of living composers and those from the latter half of the 20th century. With a discography that spans over 200 recordings, the Arditti Quartet has set the standard for interpreting the most challenging and innovative string quartet compositions. Their collaborations with composers like Brian Ferneyhough, Morton Feldman, and Kaija Saariaho have resulted in a treasure trove of commissioned works written specifically for the ensemble. Performing in prestigious concert halls and festivals globally, the Arditti Quartet continues to inspire and captivate audiences with their spirited and meticulously refined performances, making them a cornerstone of modern classical music.