Webern: The Complete String Trios and Quartets

Dive into the intricate and innovative world of Anton Webern with "Webern: The Complete String Trios and Quartets," a comprehensive collection that showcases the composer's mastery of chamber music. Released in 2000 under the naïve classique label, this album spans a rich tapestry of compositions that highlight Webern's unique voice in the avant-garde genre.

The album features a meticulously curated selection of Webern's works, including his seminal "Fünf Sätze für Streichquartett, Op. 5," "Sechs Bagatellen für Streichquartett, Op. 9," and the profound "Streichquartett, Op. 28." Each piece is a testament to Webern's ability to craft complex, yet deeply expressive music that pushes the boundaries of traditional composition.

This collection also includes lesser-known but equally captivating works such as the "Trio für Geige, Bratsche und Violoncello, Op. 20" and the "Langsamer Satz für Streichquartett." The album's duration of one hour and five minutes offers a substantial exploration of Webern's string compositions, providing a deep dive into his artistic evolution and technical prowess.

Recorded under the direction of Robert Craft, this album benefits from a high level of artistic integrity and precision, ensuring that Webern's intricate scores are brought to life with clarity and nuance. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of chamber music or a curious explorer of avant-garde compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

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.