Shostakovich: Complete String Quartets, Vol. 2, Nos. 6-12

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Dmitri Shostakovich's string quartets with the highly anticipated release, "Shostakovich: Complete String Quartets, Vol. 2, Nos. 6-12." Performed by the acclaimed Cuarteto Casals, this two-disc collection captures the essence of Shostakovich's late masterpieces, offering a deep dive into the composer's emotive and complex compositions.

Spanning from the luminous String Quartet No. 6 in G Major, Op. 101 to the profound String Quartet No. 12 in D-Flat Major, Op. 133, this album showcases the evolution of Shostakovich's string quartet writing. Each piece is a testament to his unique ability to convey a range of human experiences and emotions through the medium of the string quartet. The Cuarteto Casals brings their renowned technical prowess and interpretive sensitivity to these works, delivering performances that are both powerful and nuanced.

The album opens with the serene and introspective String Quartet No. 6, moving through the brooding intensity of No. 7, the dramatic contrasts of No. 8, the innovative structure of No. 11, the lyrical beauty of No. 9, the passionate outbursts of No. 10, and culminating in the profound and enigmatic No. 12. Each quartet is a journey in itself, offering a rich tapestry of musical ideas and emotional depth.

With a total duration of over two and a half hours, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Released on July 11, 2025, by harmonia mundi, it is a must for any classical music enthusiast and a significant addition to the discography of Shostakovich's string quartets. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Shostakovich's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling exploration of some of his most remarkable compositions.