introspective | retrospective - Hagen Quartett

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the renowned Hagen Quartett with "introspective | retrospective," a captivating exploration of chamber music masterpieces. Released on January 15, 2012, under the Myrios Classics label, this album is a testament to the ensemble's artistry and their deep connection with the repertoire.

The album showcases two significant works that offer profound insights into the composers' inner worlds. Edvard Grieg's String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 27, is a deeply introspective piece that highlights the quartet's ability to convey subtle nuances and intricate details. The quartet's performance is marked by a sense of unity and cohesion, making it a standout interpretation of this lesser-known but equally compelling work by Grieg.

Complementing Grieg's quartet is Johannes Brahms' Clarinet Quintet in B Minor, Op. 115, featuring the exceptional clarinetist Jörg Widmann. This late masterpiece by Brahms is a tour de force of chamber music, showcasing the composer's mastery of form and expression. The Hagen Quartett's performance is marked by a deep understanding of Brahms' idiom, resulting in a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.

With a total duration of 75 minutes, "introspective | retrospective" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is a testament to the Hagen Quartett's ongoing commitment to excellence and their ability to bring fresh perspectives to the chamber music repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

The Hagen Quartett, founded in 1981 by four siblings from Salzburg, Austria, stands as one of the world's leading string quartets, renowned for their exceptional performances and recordings. Comprised of Lukas Hagen and Rainer Schmidt on violins, Veronika Hagen on viola, and Clemens Hagen on cello, the ensemble has captivated audiences worldwide with their impeccable balance, intonation, and masterful control of large-scale structures. Their repertoire spans from the classics of Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn to the intricate works of Shostakovich and Schubert, each performance marked by a rich, transparent sonority and exquisite portrayal of musical narratives. The Hagen Quartett's extensive discography, including award-winning albums and complete cycles of seminal works, reflects their unmistakable artistic identity and commitment to chamber music excellence. Their live performances are often described as among the best concert-going experiences, showcasing their profound musicality and deep ensemble integration.