Leighton: Quartets Nos. 1 & 2 / Seven Variations for Quartet, Op. 43

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Kenneth Leighton's chamber music with this exquisite collection of string quartets and variations. Released in 2002, this album features the renowned composer's String Quartets No. 1 and No. 2, along with his Seven Variations for Quartet, Op. 43, performed with precision and passion by the Edinburgh Quartet. Kenneth Leighton, known for his distinctive musical style, often incorporates the augmented fourth, lending his compositions a unique, earthy quality that sets them apart.

The album opens with the String Quartet No. 1, Op. 32, a work that showcases Leighton's mastery of form and harmony. The quartet's four movements, ranging from the energetic "Con moto" to the reflective "Lento Sostenuto," offer a rich tapestry of musical expression. The String Quartet No. 2, Op. 33, follows, with its dramatic contrasts and intricate interplay between the instruments.

The Seven Variations for Quartet, Op. 43, provide a fascinating exploration of theme and variation, with each movement offering a fresh perspective on the original theme. From the waltz-like "Capriccioso alla valzer" to the energetic "Allegro precipitoso," these variations display Leighton's virtuosity and creativity.

Spanning over an hour, this album is a testament to Leighton's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the chamber music repertoire. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Kenneth Leighton's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The album is released on Meridian Records.

1 jan 2002

About Kenneth Leighton

Kenneth Leighton, born in Wakefield in 1929, was a distinguished British composer and pianist whose musical journey was as rich and varied as the landscapes of his beloved Scotland. Beginning his musical education as a chorister at Wakefield Cathedral, Leighton's early prowess earned him the LRAM Piano Performer's Diploma while still in school. His academic pursuits led him to Oxford, where he studied Classics, but his heart remained in music, influenced by notable figures like Gerald Finzi, Edmund Rubbra, and Vaughan Williams. Leighton's compositions span a wide range of genres, from church and choral music to concertos, symphonies, and even an opera. His distinctive style, a blend of English and Italian traditions, is evident in his ten mass settings alone, each in a different language and style. As a teacher at universities in Leeds, Oxford, and primarily Edinburgh, Leighton's influence extended beyond his own compositions, inspiring generations of musicians. His legacy endures in his extensive body of work, which continues to captivate audiences with its depth and talent.