American Contemporaries

Dive into the rich tapestry of American contemporary classical music with the Emerson String Quartet's "American Contemporaries," released in 1993. This captivating album, recorded under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, showcases the quartet's mastery of chamber music with a collection of string quartets that span a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes. The album features works by three prominent American composers: John Harbison, Paul Wernick, and Gunther Schuller, each offering a unique perspective on the string quartet form.

The album opens with Harbison's String Quartet No. 2, a five-movement work that explores a range of moods and textures, from the contemplative "Fantasia" to the lively "Chorale Fantasia." Wernick's String Quartet No. 4 follows, with its intricate "Introduction and Allegro" and the playful, multi-sectioned "Scherzo." The album concludes with Harbison's String Quartet No. 3, a powerful and intense work that demonstrates the Emerson String Quartet's technical prowess and musical sensitivity.

Throughout the album, the Emerson String Quartet's impeccable musicianship and deep understanding of the repertoire shine through. Their performances are marked by a sense of cohesion and unity, as well as a keen attention to detail and nuance. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "American Contemporaries" offers a compelling and rewarding listening experience.

The Emerson String Quartet, formed in 1976 at the prestigious Juilliard School, has been a beacon of excellence in the world of chamber music for over four decades. Named after the esteemed American poet and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, this American string quartet is renowned for its innovative approach, being one of the first ensembles where the two violinists, Eugene Drucker and Philip Setzer, alternate in the first violin position. With a rich history of performances and recordings, the Emerson String Quartet has solidified its reputation as one of the finest chamber music ensembles globally. Based in New York City, the quartet has been in residence at Stony Brook University, where they continue to inspire and educate new generations of musicians. Their discography spans a wide range of classical repertoire, from Mendelssohn and Brahms to Shostakovich, showcasing their versatility and mastery. Whether performing live or recorded, the Emerson String Quartet delivers performances that are as intellectually stimulating as they are emotionally resonant.