Immerse yourself in the profound and introspective world of Ludwig van Beethoven's late string quartets, masterfully performed by the renowned Alban Berg Quartett. Released on EMI Classics in 2005, this collection spans an impressive three hours and twelve minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Beethoven's final contributions to the string quartet genre.
The album features five complete string quartets, including the monumental Opus 131 with its seven interconnected movements, and the initially controversial Grosse Fuge, originally composed as the finale to Opus 130. Each piece showcases Beethoven's innovative spirit and emotional depth, pushing the boundaries of musical expression.
The Alban Berg Quartett, known for their technical precision and expressive nuance, brings these complex works to life with a captivating blend of intensity and subtlety. Their performance highlights the intricate counterpoint and harmonic richness that characterize Beethoven's late style, making this recording a testament to both the composer's genius and the quartet's artistry.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Beethoven's late works, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience. The Alban Berg Quartett's interpretation provides a fresh perspective on these timeless masterpieces, inviting you to explore the profound emotional and intellectual landscapes that Beethoven crafted in his final years.
Tracks
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: I. Maestoso - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: II. Adagio ma non troppo, molto cantabileAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: III. Scherzando vivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.12 in E Flat, Op.127: IV. FinaleAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: I. Adagio ma non troppo - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: II. PrestoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: III. Andante con moto, ma non troppoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: IV. Alla danza tedesca (Allegro assai)Alban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: V. Cavatina (Adagio molto espressivo)Alban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 13 in B Flat Major, Op.130: VI. Finale (Allegro)Alban Berg Quartett
Grosse Fuge in B Flat Major, Op.133Alban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: I. Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: II. Allegro molto vivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: III. Andante moderatoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: IV. Andante ma non troppo e molto cantabileAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: V. PrestoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: VI. Adagio quasi un poco andanteAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131: VII. AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: I. Assai sostenuto - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: II. Allegro ma non tantoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: III. Molto adagioAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: IV. Alla marcia, assai vivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No.15 in A Minor, Op.132: V. Allegro appasionatoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: I. AllegrettoAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: II. VivaceAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: III. Lento assai e cantante tranquilloAlban Berg Quartett
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op.135: IV. Grave ma non troppo tratto - AllegroAlban Berg Quartett
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