Harbison, J.: String Quartets Nos. 1-4

Dive into the avant-garde world of John Harbison with his compelling collection of string quartets, spanning from his first to his fourth, all encapsulated in a single, immersive album. Released on January 1, 2009, under the esteemed Centaur Records, Inc., this album offers a rich, 77-minute exploration of Harbison's unique compositional voice.

Harbison, a renowned figure in contemporary classical music, presents a diverse range of moods and structures across these four quartets. The album opens with the String Quartet No. 1, which unfolds in three distinct movements, each offering a blend of intimacy and vigor. The String Quartet No. 2 stands out with its five movements, including a "Recitative and Aria" and a "Chorale Fantasia," showcasing Harbison's penchant for dramatic contrast and intricate textures.

The String Quartet No. 3 is structured in five parts, with interludes that add a sense of narrative flow, while the String Quartet No. 4 concludes the album with a more introspective and reflective tone, particularly in its "Lento" and "Poco adagio" movements.

This album is a testament to Harbison's mastery of the string quartet form, offering both complexity and accessibility. Whether you're a seasoned fan of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, this collection provides a captivating journey through the mind of one of today's most innovative composers.