Ernest Bloch - Bloch: Piano Quintets Nos. 1 & 2 etc. (LP)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Ernest Bloch with this exquisite collection of chamber works, released on Hyperion in 2007. The album features two complete Piano Quintets, showcasing Bloch's mastery of the form with a range of emotions and technical brilliance. The First Piano Quintet, composed in 1923, opens with an intense Agitato, followed by a mystical Andante mistico, and concludes with a spirited Allegro energico. The Second Piano Quintet, from 1924, offers a more introspective journey, with its Animato first movement, a serene Andante, and a lively Allegro finale.

Beyond the quintets, the album offers a diverse selection of Bloch's chamber music. Night, a hauntingly beautiful work for piano and string quartet, is a standout piece that highlights Bloch's unique voice. The three-movement Paysages, inspired by different landscapes, takes the listener on a sonic journey from the North to the Alps and finally to the tropical island of Tongatapu. The album concludes with two pieces for string quartet, showcasing Bloch's skill in writing for strings alone.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album is a testament to Bloch's enduring appeal and his significant contribution to the chamber music repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned Bloch enthusiast or a newcomer to his music, this collection offers a compelling introduction to the composer's rich and varied output.