Celebrate the Pro Arte Quartet's centennial anniversary with this captivating collection of commissioned works, released on December 1, 2013, under Albany Records. Spanning a rich 97 minutes, this album is a testament to the ensemble's enduring legacy and their commitment to chamber music.
The album opens with the enchanting "String Quartet No. 2, 'Dreaming Butterfly'," a five-movement piece that weaves together dreamlike melodies and playful rhythms. The quartet's virtuosic performance brings to life the delicate nuances and dynamic contrasts of this captivating composition.
Following this, the Pro Arte Quartet presents "Three Rhapsodies for Piano Quintet," a trio of diverse and engaging pieces that showcase the ensemble's versatility and technical prowess. From the jazz-inspired "Metamorphoses on 'Get A Job'" to the poignant "The Bench of Desolation" and the lively "Klezmorim," each rhapsody offers a unique listening experience.
The album concludes with the expansive "String Quartet No. 5," a seven-movement work that explores a wide range of emotions and musical styles. From the intense and driving "Melodia 1" to the tender and introspective "Notturno 1" and "Notturno 2," and the passionate and fiery "Cuori (Hearts)," this final piece is a true showcase of the Pro Arte Quartet's artistry and musical depth.
Throughout the album, the Pro Arte Quartet demonstrates their exceptional skill and musicality, offering listeners a memorable and engaging journey through the world of chamber music. Whether you're a longtime fan of the ensemble or a newcomer to their work, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
Tracks
String Quartet No. 2, "Dreaming Butterfly": Sleep Music IWalter Mays, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 2, "Dreaming Butterfly": First Adventure, Amoroso-scherzandoWalter Mays, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 2, "Dreaming Butterfly": Second Adventure, PizzicatoWalter Mays, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 2, "Dreaming Butterfly": Third Adventure, ScorrevoloWalter Mays, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 2, "Dreaming Butterfly": Sleep Music IIWalter Mays, Pro Arte Quartet
Three Rhapsodies for Piano Quintet: I. Metamorphoses on "Get A Job"Paul Schoenfield, Pro Arte Quartet, Brian Hsu
Three Rhapsodies for Piano Quintet: II. The Bench of Desolation (after Henry James)Paul Schoenfield, Pro Arte Quartet, Brian Hsu
Three Rhapsodies for Piano Quintet: III. KlezmorimPaul Schoenfield, Pro Arte Quartet, Brian Hsu
Piano Quintet No. 2: Allegro con fuocoWilliam Bolcom, Pro Arte Quartet, Christopher Taylor
Piano Quintet No. 2: Adagio espressivoWilliam Bolcom, Pro Arte Quartet, Christopher Taylor
Piano Quintet No. 2: Scherzo nero; with abandonWilliam Bolcom, Pro Arte Quartet, Christopher Taylor
Piano Quintet No. 2: Vivo, con passioneWilliam Bolcom, Pro Arte Quartet, Christopher Taylor
String Quartet No. 5: Melodia 1John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Scherzino 1John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Notturno 1John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Visi (Faces)John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Notturno 2John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Cuori (Hearts)John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Notturno 3John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Scherzino 2John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: Melodia 2John Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
String Quartet No. 5: RipensamentoJohn Harbison, Pro Arte Quartet
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