Haydn: 3 String Quartets Opp.3 No.5, 64 No.5 & 76 No.2

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical chamber music with "Haydn: 3 String Quartets Opp.3 No.5, 64 No.5 & 76 No.2" by the renowned Quartetto Italiano. This 1965 release, under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, showcases the quartet's mastery of Haydn's intricate compositions, offering a rich and nuanced exploration of the string quartet form.

The album features three of Haydn's most celebrated string quartets, each a testament to the composer's genius and the ensemble's virtuosity. The String Quartet in D Major, Op. 64 No. 5, affectionately known as "The Lark," is a delightful work that opens with a lively Allegro moderato and includes a charming Menuet & Trio. The String Quartet in F Major, previously attributed to Haydn as Op. 3 No. 5, is notable for its serene Andante cantabile, while the String Quartet in D Minor, Op. 76 No. 2, "Fifths," is renowned for its dramatic and dynamic Finale. Vivace assai.

The Quartetto Italiano, comprising Paolo Borciani, Elisa Pegreffi, Piero Farulli, and Franco Rossi, delivers a performance that is both technically impeccable and deeply expressive. Their interpretation brings out the subtle nuances and structural brilliance of Haydn's compositions, making this album a quintessential addition to any classical music collection.

With a duration of 53 minutes, this album is a perfect blend of artistic excellence and musical depth, providing an enriching experience for both seasoned classical enthusiasts and those new to the genre.

The Quartetto Italiano, founded in 1945 in Reggio Emilia, Italy, stands as one of the most celebrated string quartets of the 20th century. Comprising Paolo Borciani, Elisa Pegreffi, Lionello Forzanti (later replaced by Piero Farulli in 1947), and Franco Rossi, the quartet began their illustrious career with a debut in Carpi when all members were in their early 20s. Initially named Nuovo Quartetto Italiano, they dropped the "Nuovo" in 1951 to become the iconic Quartetto Italiano. Renowned for their technical brilliance and emotional depth, the quartet recorded the complete cycles of Beethoven, Mozart, and Debussy string quartets, earning them global acclaim. Their performances, characterized by an aristocratic elegance and impeccable taste, captivated audiences worldwide until their disbandment in 1980. The Quartetto Italiano's legacy endures through their timeless recordings, which continue to inspire and enchant classical music enthusiasts.