Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Benjamin Britten's string quartet compositions with the comprehensive album "Britten: The Music for String Quartet." Released on July 1, 2022, by BIS Records, this collection spans a generous 3 hours and 22 minutes, featuring 36 tracks that encapsulate Britten's mastery of the string quartet form.
The album showcases Britten's three major string quartets, which alone account for less than half of the total 200 minutes of music. These quartets, along with a variety of other works, offer a deep dive into Britten's diverse musical language. The collection includes lesser-known gems such as the "3 Divertimenti for String Quartet," the "Miniature Suite" (featuring its first-ever recording), and the "Phantasy in F Minor for String Quintet."
Performed by the esteemed Emperor Quartet, this album provides a rich and nuanced exploration of Britten's compositions. From the playful and energetic "Boisterous Bourrée" to the introspective and serene "Sentimental Sarabande," each piece reveals Britten's unique ability to convey a wide range of emotions and moods through his music.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Benjamin Britten or a newcomer to his work, this album offers an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the depth and breadth of his contributions to the string quartet repertoire. The meticulous performances and high-quality recording ensure that every note and nuance is brought to life, making this a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast.
2022 BIS2022 BIS
Tracks
String Quartet No. 2 in C Major, Op. 36: I. Allegro calmo, senza rigoreBenjamin Britten, Emperor Quartet
String Quartet No. 2 in C Major, Op. 36: II. VivaceBenjamin Britten, Emperor Quartet
String Quartet No. 2 in C Major, Op. 36: III. ChaconyBenjamin Britten, Emperor Quartet