Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Vagn Holmboe's String Quartets with this remarkable album, featuring Nos. 2, 5, and 6. Released on January 5, 1996, under the Dacapo label, this collection offers a profound exploration of Holmboe's compositional genius, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes.
The album opens with the String Quartet No. 2, Op. 47, a piece that showcases Holmboe's ability to blend fluidity and emotion, as heard in the Allegro fluente and the Andante con moto e affettuoso. The quartet continues with a lively Presto and a contemplative Un poco adagio, culminating in the spirited Allegro molto e leggiero.
Next, the String Quartet No. 5, Op. 66, presents a dynamic journey through contrasting moods and tempos. The Pesante - Fluente opens with a heavy, deliberate pace before transitioning to a flowing, fluid movement. The Adagio offers a moment of serene reflection, while the Energico brings the quartet to a powerful and invigorating close.
The album concludes with the String Quartet No. 6, Op. 78, a work that exemplifies Holmboe's mastery of structure and expression. The Lento - Allegro con fuoco - Lento - Allegro con fuoco - Lento movement is a tour de force, alternating between intense, fiery sections and more subdued, reflective passages. The Molto vivace brings a lively energy, while the Adagio e piano offers a tender, introspective moment. The album closes with the Allegro spiritoso, a spirited and joyful finale.
This album is a testament to Vagn Holmboe's enduring legacy as a composer, offering listeners a rich and rewarding experience that highlights his unique voice and innovative approach to the string quartet genre.