Stanford: String Quartets Nos. 5 & 8

Dive into the rich world of chamber music with Charles Villiers Stanford's "String Quartets Nos. 5 & 8," a captivating album that showcases the composer's mastery of the string quartet form. This 2016 release on SOMM Recordings is the inaugural volume in a significant series dedicated to Stanford's eight string quartets, most of which have never been recorded before. The album features the stunning performances of the Dante Quartet, one of Britain's finest ensembles, who bring these works to life with precision and passion.

The album opens with Stanford's String Quartet No. 5 in B-Flat Major, Op. 104, a work dedicated to the memory of the renowned violinist Joseph Joachim. This quartet, composed in 1907, is a testament to Stanford's contrapuntal skill and his ability to create deeply expressive music. The second quartet on the album, String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 167, composed in 1919, further demonstrates Stanford's mastery of the form with its serious and substantial character.

In addition to the two string quartets, the album includes a bonus track: Joachim's "Romance" from his "Drei Stücke für Violine und Klavier," Op. 2, performed by Krysia Osostowicz on violin and Mark Bebbington on piano. This piece adds a delightful contrast to the album, showcasing the romantic side of Stanford's contemporary.

Recorded in December 2015 at the St. Nicolas Parish Church in Thames Ditton, UK, this album benefits from the excellent acoustics of the venue, providing a warm and resonant backdrop to the performances. With a total duration of 66 minutes and 58 seconds, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen for anyone interested in classical chamber music.

Charles Villiers Stanford, born in 1852 and passing away in 1924, was a prominent figure in English music, particularly known for his church music. His string quartets, however, are less known but equally deserving of attention. This album is an excellent introduction to Stanford's chamber music, performed by one of the most respected quartets in the UK. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Charles Villiers Stanford, an eminent figure of the late Romantic era, was an Anglo-Irish composer, conductor, and music educator whose influence resonates through the generations. Born into a musically inclined family in Dublin, Stanford's journey took him from the halls of the University of Cambridge to the prestigious music conservatories of Leipzig and Berlin. His contributions to the musical world are vast, notably his role in elevating the Cambridge University Musical Society to international acclaim. Stanford's compositions, particularly his choral works and requiems, are celebrated for their depth and emotional resonance, earning him the title of Ireland's most prolific composer. His legacy endures, inspiring countless musicians and composers, including the likes of Ralph Vaughan Williams and Gustav Holst. Stanford's Anglican cathedral music remains a staple in the repertoire, a testament to his enduring impact on the world of music.