Debussy & Milhaud: String Quartets

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical chamber music with the Quartetto Italiano's captivating album, "Debussy & Milhaud: String Quartets." Released in 1954 under the prestigious Warner Classics label, this album is a masterful blend of two distinct yet equally enchanting works: Claude Debussy's String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 10, and Darius Milhaud's String Quartet No. 12, Op. 252.

The Quartetto Italiano, renowned for their exquisite precision and expressive depth, brings these compositions to life with a performance that has been hailed as "miraculous." Debussy's quartet, composed in 1893, is a cornerstone of the Impressionist movement, characterized by its lush harmonies and evocative melodies. The four movements, ranging from the animated first to the deeply expressive third, showcase the ensemble's ability to convey a wide range of emotions.

Complementing Debussy's work is Milhaud's String Quartet No. 12, a modernist piece that challenges and delights with its complex rhythms and vibrant energy. The three movements, from the moderate first to the lively third, demonstrate the Quartetto Italiano's mastery of both technical prowess and musical sensitivity.

With a total runtime of 43 minutes, this album is a compact yet profound journey through two significant works of the chamber music repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, the Quartetto Italiano's interpretation of these quartets is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The Quartetto Italiano, founded in 1945 in Reggio Emilia, Italy, stands as one of the most celebrated string quartets of the 20th century. Comprising Paolo Borciani, Elisa Pegreffi, Lionello Forzanti (later replaced by Piero Farulli in 1947), and Franco Rossi, the quartet began their illustrious career with a debut in Carpi when all members were in their early 20s. Initially named Nuovo Quartetto Italiano, they dropped the "Nuovo" in 1951 to become the iconic Quartetto Italiano. Renowned for their technical brilliance and emotional depth, the quartet recorded the complete cycles of Beethoven, Mozart, and Debussy string quartets, earning them global acclaim. Their performances, characterized by an aristocratic elegance and impeccable taste, captivated audiences worldwide until their disbandment in 1980. The Quartetto Italiano's legacy endures through their timeless recordings, which continue to inspire and enchant classical music enthusiasts.