György Kurtág: Complete String Quartets

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of György Kurtág's complete string quartets, masterfully performed by the renowned Quatuor Molinari. This album, released on September 23, 2016, by ATMA Classique, offers a comprehensive journey through the composer's chamber works, showcasing his unique voice and deep musical insight.

György Kurtág, a 90-year-old Hungarian composer, has dedicated much of his recent work to the string quartet genre, drawing inspiration from the Vienna School, particularly Webern and Schoenberg. This recording features a diverse range of compositions, from the early "Quatuor à cordes, Op. 1" to the evocative "Six moments musicaux, Op. 44," each piece revealing Kurtág's meticulous craftsmanship and emotional depth.

The album spans a duration of one hour and one minute, encapsulating a lifetime of musical exploration and innovation. It includes seminal works such as "Hommage à András Mihály: Douze microludes pour quatuor à cordes, Op. 13" and "Officium breve in memoriam: Andreæ Szervánszky, Op. 28," as well as shorter, equally captivating pieces like "Aus der Ferne III" and "Aus der Ferne V."

The Quatuor Molinari's performance brings out the subtle nuances and rich textures of Kurtág's compositions, making this album an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Kurtág's work or a newcomer to his music, this recording offers a compelling and enriching listening experience.

György Kurtág, born in 1926 in Lugoj, Romania, is a renowned Hungarian composer, pianist, and chamber music teacher, celebrated for his mastery of concision in musical composition. His works, often condensed into a few poignant notes, carry profound emotional depth and complexity. Kurtág began his musical journey in Temesvár and later studied at the Budapest Academy of Music under esteemed professors like Pál Kadosa and Sándor Veress. His discography includes notable releases such as "Játékok" and "From Afar," showcasing his unique style that blends classical piano and chamber music genres. Kurtág's contributions to music have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Kossuth Prize and the Erkel Ferenc Prize, solidifying his status as one of the greatest living composers. His compositions, such as the String Quartet No. 1 and the Eight Pieces for piano, are testament to his innovative and introspective approach to music.