Bruch: String Quintets & Octet

Immerse yourself in the late masterpieces of Max Bruch with this exquisite collection of string quintets and an octet, recorded by the WDR Sinfonieorchester Chamber Players. At the age of eighty, in the aftermath of World War I, Bruch returned to his chamber music roots, inspired by the virtuoso Willy Hess. The result is a trio of works that defy their tumultuous historical context, offering instead a world of Brahmsian richness and warmth.

This album features two string quintets and an octet, each scored with a unique blend of strings that creates a tapestry of sound. The String Quintet in E-Flat Major and the String Quintet in A Minor, both marked 'Op. Posth.', showcase Bruch's mastery of the form, with intricate harmonies and lyrical melodies that unfold over four movements each. The String Octet in B-Flat Major, also 'Op. Posth.', adds an extra layer of complexity with its eight-part string ensemble, delivering a powerful and cohesive musical experience.

Recorded in the Philharmonie Köln, this album captures the essence of Bruch's late-style romanticism, offering a serene and introspective journey through his final years of composition. The WDR Sinfonieorchester Chamber Players bring their renowned expertise to these works, delivering performances that are both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Bruch's music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Max Bruch, born in 1838, was a prominent German Romantic composer, violinist, teacher, and conductor whose musical legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Throughout his prolific career, Bruch composed over 200 works, but it is his Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor that has secured his place in the annals of classical music. This concerto, a staple of the violin repertoire, showcases Bruch's mastery of melody and orchestration, offering a rich and emotive experience for both performers and listeners alike. Bruch's journey in the music world spanned from the influence of Mendelssohn to the dawn of Schoenberg's atonal compositions, reflecting a lifetime dedicated to the evolution of musical expression. Beyond his concertos, Bruch's extensive catalog includes a variety of orchestral, chamber, and choral works, each bearing the hallmark of his distinctive Romantic style. His contributions as a conductor and teacher further cement his influence, making Max Bruch a figure of enduring significance in the classical music landscape.