Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Nikolai Myaskovsky with the release of his Complete String Quartets, Vol. 5: Nos. 12 & 13. This album, released on April 5, 2011, under the Northern Flowers label, offers a profound exploration of Myaskovsky's later quartets, showcasing his masterful compositional skills and emotional depth.
The album features two complete string quartets: the 12th in G Major, Op. 77, and the 13th in A Minor, Op. 86. Each quartet is a journey in itself, with four distinct movements that range from the serene and introspective to the energetic and dynamic. Myaskovsky's ability to blend lyrical melodies with intricate harmonies and rhythms is evident throughout, making this a compelling listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
The 12th Quartet opens with an Andante. Allegro moderato, setting a contemplative tone that gradually builds into a lively and imaginative Allegro fantastico. The third movement, Andante con espressione, is a poignant and expressive interlude, while the final Allegro non troppo brings the quartet to a vibrant and satisfying conclusion.
The 13th Quartet begins with a Moderato that is both powerful and restrained, followed by a Presto fantastico that is full of energy and whimsy. The third movement, Andante con moto e molto cantabile, is a beautiful and melodic centerpiece, while the Molto vivo, energico finale is a thrilling and exhilarating conclusion to the quartet and the album.
With a total duration of 55 minutes, this album is a testament to Myaskovsky's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the string quartet repertoire. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Myaskovsky's work or discovering it for the first time, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
