Leo Ornstein: Piano Quintet, String Quartet #3

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Leo Ornstein's chamber music with this remarkable album, featuring his Piano Quintet and String Quartet No. 3. Released on January 1, 1997, by New World Records, this collection showcases Ornstein's unique compositional style, blending early 20th-century modernism with a touch of Russian folk influences.

The album opens with the Piano Quintet, a three-movement work that begins with the energetic "Allegro barbaro," followed by the introspective "Andante lamentoso," and concludes with the dynamic "Allegro agitato." Each movement offers a distinct mood and tempo, demonstrating Ornstein's versatility and mastery of the chamber music genre.

The second half of the album presents the String Quartet No. 3, another three-movement piece that starts with the "Moderato con moto," a movement that sets a steady pace with a sense of motion. The second movement, "Moderato quasi improvisato," offers a more free-form and improvisational feel, while the final "Allegro con moto" brings the quartet to a lively and exhilarating close.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album provides a comprehensive exploration of Ornstein's chamber music repertoire. Whether you're a longtime fan of Leo Ornstein or a newcomer to his work, this album is a fantastic addition to any classical music collection.