Schulhoff: String Quartets Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Erwin Schulhoff's chamber music with the release of "String Quartets Vol. 2." This album, released on April 1, 2006, under the VMS Musical Treasures label, showcases the intricate and expressive compositions of Schulhoff, a prolific Czech composer whose work spans various genres and styles.

The album features two complete string quartets, performed with precision and passion by the Aviv Quartet. The first quartet, String Quartet No. 2, is a four-movement work that begins with an "Allegro agitato," setting a lively and energetic tone. The second movement, "Thema con variazioni," offers a more contemplative and varied exploration of themes. The third movement, "Allegro gajo," brings a playful and joyful spirit, while the final movement, "Finale. Andante quasi introduzione," concludes the quartet with a reflective and introspective mood.

The second quartet, String Quartet, Op. 25, is also a four-movement work that begins with "Frisch & kräftig," a lively and robust opening. The second movement, "Langsam, getragen und ausdrucksvoll," provides a slow and expressive contrast. The third movement, "Menuett," offers a graceful and elegant interlude, while the final movement, "Rondo," brings the quartet to a spirited and dynamic conclusion.

With a total duration of 49 minutes, this album is a testament to Schulhoff's mastery of the string quartet form and his ability to create deeply moving and engaging music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "String Quartets Vol. 2" is sure to captivate and inspire.

Erwin Schulhoff, born in Prague in 1894, was a pioneering Austro-Czech composer and pianist whose eclectic style and bold experimentation made him a standout figure in early 20th-century music. Schulhoff's compositions spanned a wide range of influences, from Schoenbergian expressionism to Stravinskian neo-classicism, and he was one of the first European composers to integrate jazz into traditional musical forms. His embrace of Dadaism and socialist realism, along with his commitment to communist ideals, reflected his radical artistic vision. Despite his promising career, Schulhoff's life was tragically cut short by the Nazi regime. He was persecuted for his Jewish heritage and died in a concentration camp in 1942. His legacy endures through his innovative and emotionally resonant works, which continue to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians.