Immerse yourself in the captivating world of chamber music with the Alban Berg Quartett's exquisite 2001 release, "Ravel & Debussy: String Quartets & Stravinsky: 3 Pieces, Concertino & Double Canon." This album is a testament to the ensemble's mastery and versatility, featuring a compelling collection of works by three of the most influential composers of the early 20th century.
The Alban Berg Quartett delivers a fresh and intense interpretation of Debussy's String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 10, CD 91, L. 85, challenging the conventional perception of Debussy's music as merely wistful and fragile. Their performance is dark, nervous, and sinewy, revealing the depth and complexity of Debussy's composition.
Ravel's String Quartet in F Major, M. 35, is rendered with equal finesse, showcasing the quartet's ability to balance the work's delicate nuances with its rhythmic vigor. The ensemble's technical precision and expressive depth breathe new life into Ravel's intricate and evocative score.
The album also includes Stravinsky's Three Pieces for String Quartet, Concertino for String Quartet, and Double Canon "Raoul Dufy in memoriam." These works demonstrate the Alban Berg Quartett's prowess in navigating Stravinsky's distinctive and demanding style, characterized by its rhythmic complexity and innovative use of form.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 6 minutes, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The Alban Berg Quartett's performances are not to be missed by any lover of chamber music, making this a standout release in their impressive discography.