Webern: Complete Works for String Quartet & String Trio

This album presents a comprehensive collection of Anton Webern's works for string quartet and string trio, offering a deep dive into the composer's avant-garde chamber music. Recorded by the renowned Artis Quartett Wien and released by Nimbus Records, this compilation features Webern's complete compositions in these genres, showcasing his unique approach to form and sound construction.

The album includes iconic pieces such as the String Quartet, Op. 28, and the Five Movements for String Quartet, Op. 5, alongside lesser-known works like the Rondo for String Quartet and the Six Bagatelles for String Quartet, Op. 9. Each piece is a testament to Webern's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to the chamber music repertoire.

With a total duration of approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a compact yet rich exploration of Webern's string compositions. The precise and expressive performances by the Artis Quartett Wien bring out the intricate details and subtle nuances of Webern's music, making this a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The album was released on January 1, 2001, and is a tribute to the memory of Jenö Lehner, a beloved mentor and dear friend.

Anton Webern, born in Vienna in 1883, was an Austrian composer and conductor whose innovative approach to music left an indelible mark on the 20th century. A key figure in the Second Viennese School, alongside Arnold Schoenberg and Alban Berg, Webern is renowned for his pioneering use of atonality and the twelve-tone technique. His compositions, often concise and structurally rigorous, reflect his deep study of both historical music and the avant-garde teachings of his time. Webern's works, primarily in the genres of avant-garde and chamber music, continue to inspire and challenge musicians and enthusiasts alike, offering a rich exploration of sound and form. His legacy is celebrated through his extensive catalogue of works, which remain as relevant and influential today as they were during his lifetime.