Immerse yourself in the world of Ludwig van Beethoven's early string quartets with this captivating collection, released by Decca Music Group Ltd. in 1989. Spanning a generous 2 hours and 43 minutes, this album is a testament to Beethoven's genius, featuring six of his most celebrated string quartets from Op. 18. The Quartetto Italiano brings these complex and often misunderstood works to life with whirling vitality and tender sophistication, handling Beethoven's dynamic contrasts and phrasings with finesse.
The album opens with the String Quartet No. 1 in F, Op. 18 No. 1, and takes you through a journey of musical evolution, culminating in the profound String Quartet No. 6 in B flat, Op. 18 No. 6. Each quartet is a masterclass in composition, showcasing Beethoven's innovative spirit and emotional depth. The Quartetto Italiano's performance is marked by a deep understanding of Beethoven's intent, delivering a rendition that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.
This collection is not just for classical enthusiasts but for anyone who appreciates the power of music to evoke a range of emotions and thoughts. Beethoven's early string quartets are a cornerstone of classical music, and this album offers a unique opportunity to experience them in all their glory. Whether you're a seasoned listener or new to classical music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
String Quartet No. 1 in F, Op. 18 No. 1: 1. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 1 in F, Op. 18 No. 1: 2. Adagio affettuoso ed appassionatoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 1 in F, Op. 18 No. 1: 3. Scherzo (Allegro molto)Ludwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 1 in F, Op. 18 No. 1: 4. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 2 in G, Op. 18 No. 2: 1. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 2 in G, Op. 18 No. 2: 2. Adagio cantabile - Allegro - Tempo ILudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 2 in G, Op. 18 No. 2: 3. Scherzo (Allegro)Ludwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 2 in G, Op. 18 No. 2: 4. Allegro molto, quasi prestoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 3 in D, Op. 18 No. 3: 1. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 3 in D, Op. 18 No. 3: 2. Andante con motoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 3 in D, Op. 18 No. 3: 3. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 3 in D, Op. 18 No. 3: 4. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 4 in C minor, Op. 18 No. 4: 1. Allegro ma non tantoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 4 in C minor, Op. 18 No. 4: 2. Andante scherzoso, quasi allegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 4 in C minor, Op. 18 No. 4: 3. Menuetto (Allegretto)Ludwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 4 in C minor, Op. 18 No. 4: 4. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 5 in A, Op. 18 No. 5: 1. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 5 in A, Op. 18 No. 5: 2. MenuettoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 5 in A, Op. 18 No. 5: 3. Andante cantabileLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 5 in A, Op. 18 No. 5: 4. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 6 in B flat, Op. 18 No. 6: 1. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 6 in B flat, Op. 18 No. 6: 2. Adagio ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 6 in B flat, Op. 18 No. 6: 3. Scherzo (Allegro)Ludwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano
String Quartet No. 6 in B flat, Op. 18 No. 6: 4. La Malinconia (Adagio - Allegretto quasi allegro - Adagio - Allegretto - Poco adagio - Prestissimo)Ludwig van Beethoven, Quartetto Italiano