Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of Alexander Glazunov with his captivating string quartets and a unique cycle of pieces from "The Fridays". This album, released on October 8, 2021, under the Musical Concepts label, offers a compelling exploration of Glazunov's mastery of the string quartet form.
The album opens with String Quartet No. 3 in G major, Op. 26 "Slavonic", a piece that beautifully showcases Glazunov's ability to blend Slavic folk influences with classical structure. The quartet's four movements, from the Moderato opening to the lively Finale, offer a journey through a variety of moods and tempos.
Following this, the String Quartet No. 5 in D minor, Op. 70, presents a more introspective side of Glazunov. The quartet's four movements, including a haunting Adagio, demonstrate the composer's depth of emotion and his ability to create a sense of intimacy and reflection.
The album concludes with selections from "The Fridays", a cycle of pieces for string quartet. The Prelude and Fugue from Book I and the Kuranta from Book II offer a glimpse into Glazunov's experimental side, with their unique structures and engaging rhythms.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen for anyone interested in the works of Alexander Glazunov. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this collection of string quartets and chamber works is sure to captivate and inspire.