Duke Quartet - 20th Century String Selection (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of 20th-century classical music with the Duke Quartet's "20th Century String Selection." Released in 2014 under Ameritz Music Ltd., this album is a meticulously curated journey through some of the most significant string quartet compositions of the past century. Spanning a diverse range of styles and influences, the album features works by renowned composers such as Philip Glass, Samuel Barber, and Paul Desmond, among others.

The Duke Quartet, known for their precision and expressive depth, brings a fresh perspective to these timeless pieces. The album opens with the dynamic "String Quartet, Op. 11" by an unspecified composer, showcasing the quartet's ability to balance intensity and subtlety. It continues with a variety of compositions, including the introspective "Lyric Suite" and the innovative "String Quartet No. 4, 'The Ramanujan Notebooks,'" which highlights the quartet's versatility and technical prowess.

With a total duration of 2 hours and 6 minutes, "20th Century String Selection" is a comprehensive exploration of the string quartet genre. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer looking to discover the beauty of 20th-century compositions, this album offers a captivating listening experience. The Duke Quartet's interpretation of these works is both respectful of the original compositions and infused with a modern sensibility, making this album a standout in their discography.