Ligeti, G.: String Quartets

György Ligeti's "String Quartets" album, released on December 15, 2009, under the Naxos label, is a captivating exploration of avant-garde music. This collection features two of Ligeti's most renowned string quartets, showcasing his innovative compositional style and profound influence on 20th-century music.

The album opens with "String Quartet No. 1, 'Metamorphoses nocturnes,'" a piece that delves into a world of nocturnal transformations. The quartet is divided into four movements, each with its unique character and tempo, ranging from the graceful "Allegro grazioso" to the lively "Prestissimo - Andante tranquillo." The final movement, "Subito allegro con moto - Prestissimo," brings the piece to a thrilling close.

"String Quartet No. 2" follows, a work that Ligeti composed in 1968. This five-movement piece is a testament to Ligeti's experimental approach, with movements titled "Allegro nervoso," "Sostenuto, molto calmo," and "Presto furioso, brutale, tumultuoso," each offering a distinct emotional and rhythmic landscape. The quartet concludes with a delicate "Allegro con delicatezza," providing a serene contrast to the preceding tumultuous movements.

The album also includes "Andante cantabile" and "Andante and Allegretto: Allegretto poco capriccioso," further demonstrating Ligeti's mastery of string writing and his ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

With a total duration of 55 minutes, this album is a comprehensive introduction to Ligeti's string quartets, offering listeners a chance to immerse themselves in the composer's unique sound world. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, György Ligeti's "String Quartets" is an essential addition to your collection.