Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Béla Bartók's string quartets with this 2008 release from Warner Classics. The album, performed by the renowned Belcea Quartet, presents all six of Bartók's string quartets, showcasing the composer's evolution and mastery of the form. Spanning nearly two and a half hours, this collection is a testament to Bartók's innovative spirit and profound musical expression.
The Belcea Quartet delivers a performance of phenomenal accuracy and assured style, bringing Bartók's intricate compositions to life with precision and passion. From the hauntingly beautiful "Lento" of the First Quartet to the dynamic and complex "Finale" of the Sixth, each piece is rendered with a depth of understanding and technical brilliance that highlights the quartet's exceptional artistry.
Recorded at the Phoenix Studio over several sessions in 2008, this album captures the essence of Bartók's music with clarity and warmth. The recording quality is superb, allowing every nuance and detail of the performance to shine through. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Bartók's work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Béla Bartók's string quartets are among the most significant contributions to the chamber music repertoire of the 20th century. This album provides a comprehensive overview of his quartets, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection. The Belcea Quartet's interpretation brings fresh insights and a vibrant energy to these timeless works, ensuring that Bartók's genius continues to resonate with audiences today.
Tracks
Bartók: String Quartet No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 7, Sz. 40: I. LentoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 7, Sz. 40: II. AllegrettoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 7, Sz. 40: III. Allegro vivaceBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 3 in C-Sharp Minor, Sz. 85: I. Prima parte. ModeratoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 3 in C-Sharp Minor, Sz. 85: II. Seconda parte. AllegroBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 3 in C-Sharp Minor, Sz. 85: III. Ricapitulazione della prima parte. Moderato & IV. Coda. Allegro moltoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 5 in B-Flat Major, Sz. 102: I. AllegroBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 5 in B-Flat Major, Sz. 102: II. Adagio moltoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 5 in B-Flat Major, Sz. 102: III. Scherzo. Alla bulgarese - TrioBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 5 in B-Flat Major, Sz. 102: IV. AndanteBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 5 in B-Flat Major, Sz. 102: V. Finale. Allegro vivace - PrestoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 17, Sz. 67: I. ModeratoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 17, Sz. 67: II. Allegro molto capricciosoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 17, Sz. 67: III. LentoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 4 in C Major, Sz. 91: I. AllegroBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 4 in C Major, Sz. 91: II. Prestissimo, con sordinoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 4 in C Major, Sz. 91: III. Non troppo lentoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 4 in C Major, Sz. 91: IV. Allegretto pizzicatoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 4 in C Major, Sz. 91: V. Allegro moltoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 6 in D Major, Sz. 114: I. Mesto - VivaceBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 6 in D Major, Sz. 114: II. Mesto - MarciaBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 6 in D Major, Sz. 114: III. Mesto - Burletta. ModeratoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet
Bartók: String Quartet No. 6 in D Major, Sz. 114: IV. MestoBéla Bartók, Belcea Quartet