Berg: Lyric Suite; Wellesz: Sonnets By Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Op.52

Indulge in the exquisite blend of chamber music and classical vocal artistry with the Emerson String Quartet's captivating album, featuring Alban Berg's "Lyric Suite" and Egon Wellesz's "Sonnets by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Op. 52." This 2015 release, under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, offers a rich, 56-minute journey through masterful compositions that showcase the depth and versatility of the ensemble.

The album opens with Berg's "Lyric Suite," a six-movement string quartet that is renowned for its intricate harmonies and expressive depth. The Emerson String Quartet delivers a nuanced performance, bringing out the subtle nuances and dramatic contrasts that define this iconic work. The suite's final movement, "Largo desolato," is particularly striking, with a hauntingly beautiful version featuring soprano Renée Fleming, adding a vocal dimension that enhances the piece's emotional resonance.

Following Berg's suite, the album presents Wellesz's "Sonnets by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Op. 52," a set of five songs that beautifully marry the poetry of Elizabeth Barrett Browning with Wellesz's evocative musical settings. Fleming's crystalline vocals shine in these pieces, offering a poignant interpretation of the sonnets. The album concludes with "Komm, süsser Tod," a serene and reflective piece that provides a fitting conclusion to this compelling collection.

This album is a testament to the Emerson String Quartet's technical prowess and artistic sensitivity, making it a standout release in their discography. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable 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.