Antonín Dvořák - Dvorák: String Quartet No.12 "American"; Cypresses / Kodály: String Quartet No.2 (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Antonín Dvořák's String Quartet No. 12, affectionately known as the "American" quartet, a masterpiece that beautifully blends the composer's Czech roots with the vibrant influences of his time in the United States. This album, released in 1987 by Deutsche Grammophon, is a testament to Dvořák's genius, featuring the renowned Hagen Quartett's exquisite interpretation of his works.

The album opens with the "American" quartet, a piece that captures the essence of American folk music and spirituals, seamlessly woven into the classical string quartet format. The four movements, from the lively "Allegro ma non troppo" to the spirited "Finale (Vivace ma non troppo)," showcase Dvořák's ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally appealing.

Following the "American" quartet, the album presents a selection from Dvořák's "Cypresses," a collection of 13 piano pieces that the composer later arranged for string quartet. These pieces, including the serene "Moderato" and the playful "Allegro scherzando," offer a glimpse into Dvořák's introspective side, providing a beautiful contrast to the more exuberant "American" quartet.

The album concludes with Zoltán Kodály's String Quartet No. 2, a piece that complements Dvořák's works with its own unique blend of folk influences and classical sophistication. This album is a delightful journey through the works of two of the most influential composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.