Nicolas Altstaedt, the acclaimed cellist, brings together an exceptional ensemble of musicians to present a captivating album featuring works by Sándor Veress and Béla Bartók. Released on August 30, 2019, under the Alpha Classics label, this album showcases the String Trio by Veress, a former student of Bartók, and Bartók's Piano Quintet in C Major, SZ. 23.
The album opens with Veress' String Trio, a piece that reflects the composer's unique voice and his connection to the Hungarian musical tradition. The trio is performed by the talented Vilde Frang on violin, Barnabás Kelemen on violin, and Lawrence Power on viola, with Nicolas Altstaedt on cello. The performance is marked by its sensitivity and nuance, highlighting the intricate interplay between the instruments.
Following the String Trio, the album presents Bartók's Piano Quintet, a work that draws inspiration from the romantic traditions of Brahms and Strauss. The quintet is performed by the same ensemble, with the addition of Alexander Lonquich on piano. The performance is dynamic and engaging, showcasing the technical prowess of the musicians and the rich harmonic language of Bartók.
The album is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the musicians involved, each bringing their unique perspective to the works of Veress and Bartók. The performances are marked by their clarity and precision, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the complexity and beauty of the music.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical and chamber music. The combination of Veress' String Trio and Bartók's Piano Quintet offers a rich and varied listening experience, showcasing the depth and breadth of these composers' works. Nicolas Altstaedt and his ensemble deliver a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, making this album a standout in the world of classical music.
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