Rubbra: String Quartet No. 2 - Amoretti

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Edmund Rubbra's musical genius with this compelling collection of chamber works. Released on November 17, 2009, under the Naxos label, this album showcases Rubbra's mastery of the string quartet, his evocative vocal settings, and his profound piano trio compositions.

The centerpiece of the album is Rubbra's String Quartet No. 2 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73, a work that exemplifies the composer's belief in the string quartet as the purest and most lucid texture available to a composer. The quartet unfolds in four movements, each revealing Rubbra's unique voice and his deep understanding of the medium.

Complementing the string quartet are the enchanting settings of Edmund Spenser's sonnets from "Amoretti," Op. 43. These five sonnets, which explore the poet's love affair with his wife, are brought to life by the sensitive performances of tenor Charles Daniels and the Maggini Quartet. The delicate interplay between voice and strings creates an intimate and captivating atmosphere.

The album also features the hauntingly beautiful "Ave Maria Gratia Plena," a work that showcases Rubbra's ability to evoke profound spirituality through his music. The piano trio, Op. 68, rounds out the collection, demonstrating Rubbra's skill in crafting intricate and expressive works for this ensemble.

Performances are brought to life by the Maggini Quartet, tenor Charles Daniels, and pianist Martin Roscoe, each bringing their unique insights and technical prowess to these remarkable works. With a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive and rewarding exploration of Edmund Rubbra's chamber music.