Dive into the intricate world of Benjamin Frankel's chamber music with the release of "Frankel: Complete String Quartets." This album, released on July 1, 2013, under the CPO label, presents a comprehensive collection of Frankel's string quartets, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 29 minutes. The album features five quartets, each a testament to Frankel's unique compositional style and mastery of the genre.
The quartets, numbered from Op. 14 to Op. 43, offer a rich tapestry of musical expression. Each quartet is divided into multiple movements, showcasing a range of emotions and moods, from the tranquil and serene to the lively and mysterious. Frankel's compositions are known for their complexity and depth, and this collection is no exception.
The String Quartet No. 1, Op. 14, opens the album with a gentle Andantino tranquillo, followed by a lively Allegro brioso. The quartet continues to explore various moods and tempos, culminating in a Serioso. Moderato. The subsequent quartets follow a similar structure, each offering a unique journey through Frankel's musical landscape.
String Quartet No. 2, Op. 15, introduces a Moderato, tranquillo, followed by a Gioviale and a Lento, showcasing Frankel's ability to shift seamlessly between different emotional states. The quartet concludes with an Allegretto misterioso and an Allegro assai, adding a sense of intrigue and excitement.
String Quartet No. 3, Op. 18, begins with an Andantino dolente, con fluidito, setting a mournful tone that is later contrasted with a Moderato deciso and an Allegretto malevolo. The quartet concludes with a Lento, misteriosamente and a Giubilante. Presto, offering a sense of resolution and triumph.
String Quartet No. 4, Op. 21, opens with an Allegro comodo, followed by a Scherzando and a Lento mesto. The quartet concludes with an Andantino semplice, providing a sense of calm and simplicity. Finally, String Quartet No. 5, Op. 43, begins with a Misurato, sereno, followed by an Intermezzo I. Allegro and a Molto adagio. The quartet concludes with an Intermezzo II. Allegrettino and a Scorrevole, offering a sense of flow and movement.
This album is a must-listen for fans of chamber music and those interested in exploring the works of Benjamin Frankel. The Complete String Quartets offer a profound and engaging musical experience, showcasing Frankel's unique voice and contributions to the genre.
