Beethoven: The Late Quartets, Vol.2

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Ludwig van Beethoven's late string quartets with "Beethoven: The Late Quartets, Vol. 2." This captivating collection, released in 1996 by Decca Music Group Ltd., features the renowned Quartetto Italiano, delivering a masterful performance of two of Beethoven's most celebrated works: String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131, and String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 29 minutes, this album is a testament to Beethoven's genius and the Quartetto Italiano's exceptional skill. The ensemble, comprising Paolo Borciani on the first violin, Piero Farulli on the viola, Franco Rossi on the cello, and an unnamed second violinist, brings a rich and nuanced interpretation to these complex and emotionally resonant compositions.

String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131, is renowned for its seven interconnected movements, each flowing seamlessly into the next. This quartet is a journey through a range of emotions and moods, from the introspective Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivo to the lively Allegro moderato and the serene Andante. The final movement, a spirited Allegro, brings the quartet to a triumphant close.

String Quartet No. 15 in A Minor, Op. 132, is equally compelling. The quartet begins with the Assai sostenuto – Allegro, a movement that sets the stage for the emotional depth and technical brilliance that follows. The Molto adagio. Heiliger Dankgesang – Andante. Neue kraft fühlend is a particularly moving piece, reflecting Beethoven's gratitude for his recovery from illness. The quartet concludes with the energetic Allegro appassionato – Presto, leaving the listener in awe of Beethoven's compositional prowess.

This album is not just a collection of Beethoven's late quartets but a profound exploration of his musical evolution. The Quartetto Italiano's performance is a testament to their deep understanding and appreciation of Beethoven's work, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.