Simpson: String Quartets Nos. 10 & 11

Robert Simpson's sublime string quartets are a true masterpiece of chamber music, and this album, 'Simpson: String Quartets Nos. 10 & 11', is a testament to his genius. Released on 1 March 1988 by Hyperion, this 52-minute album is a journey through the intricacies of Simpson's compositional style, showcasing his unique ability to craft complex, yet beautiful, musical landscapes.

The album features two of Simpson's most renowned string quartets, Nos. 10 and 11, each comprising multiple movements that demonstrate the composer's mastery of pace and emotion. From the Allegretto of String Quartet No. 10, with its gentle, lilting rhythm, to the Prestissimo, with its frenetic energy, and the Molto adagio, with its haunting, mournful tones, Simpson's music is a rich tapestry of sound and feeling.

String Quartet No. 11 is equally impressive, with its Allegro molto, Adagio, and Presto – Molto adagio pianissimo movements, each one a showcase for Simpson's technical skill and artistic vision. Throughout the album, the musicianship is superb, bringing Simpson's compositions to life with precision, passion, and dedication.

With its release on the esteemed Hyperion label, 'Simpson: String Quartets Nos. 10 & 11' is a must-listen for fans of chamber music and Robert Simpson's work. This album is a powerful testament to the enduring beauty and elegance of Simpson's music, and its influence can still be felt today.

Robert Simpson, born in Leamington, England, in 1921, was a towering figure in 20th-century British music, renowned for his symphonies and string quartets. A prolific composer and distinguished musicologist, Simpson's work is celebrated for its power, originality, and intellectual depth. His compositions, which include 11 symphonies and 16 string quartets, have been likened to those of Beethoven for their structural complexity and emotional resonance. Simpson's career spanned over three decades at the BBC, where he served as a producer and broadcaster, advocating for neglected composers and shaping the cultural landscape of the time. His resignation from the BBC in 1980 over funding cuts and orchestra reductions underscored his commitment to artistic integrity. Simpson's music, though long overlooked outside of Britain, is now gaining wider recognition thanks to dedicated recordings and advocacy from organizations like the Robert Simpson Society. His legacy as a composer and writer on music continues to inspire and challenge musicians and audiences alike.