Debussy & Ravel String Quartets

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French chamber music with the Quartetto Italiano's exquisite rendition of the Debussy & Ravel String Quartets. Released in 2003, this album is a testament to the ensemble's legacy, which began in 1945, and their deep connection with the Debussy Quartet, having intensively studied it since their formation.

The album opens with Claude Debussy's String Quartet in G minor, a work completed in 1893 that marked a significant departure from traditional quartet forms. Debussy's unique harmonic language and evocative textures are beautifully captured by the Quartetto Italiano, offering a fresh perspective on this seminal work. The quartet's performance is marked by its clarity and precision, allowing the intricate details of Debussy's score to shine through.

Following Debussy's quartet is Maurice Ravel's String Quartet in F, a work that, while structurally modeled on Debussy's, offers a distinctively different musical landscape. Ravel's quartet is known for its lush harmonies and rhythmic vitality, qualities that the Quartetto Italiano brings to the fore in their performance. The ensemble's rich tone and impeccable ensemble playing make this a standout interpretation of Ravel's quartet.

The album also includes Darius Milhaud's String Quartet No. 12, adding another layer of French musical heritage to the collection. Milhaud's quartet, with its distinctive rhythmic drive and harmonic language, provides a fascinating contrast to the works of Debussy and Ravel.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of French chamber music, performed by one of the most respected ensembles in the genre. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding listening experience. The Quartetto Italiano's performance is marked by its technical virtuosity, musical insight, and deep understanding of the repertoire, making this a standout release in their discography.

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.