Elgar: String Quartet – Bridge: Idylls – Walton: String Quartet - Coull Quartet

Album Description

Dive into the rich world of classical chamber music with the Coull Quartet's 1994 album, a captivating collection that spans the works of three distinguished composers. This album features the String Quartet in E Minor, Op. 83 by Edward Elgar, a piece known for its profound depth and intricate composition, showcasing the quartet's mastery of Elgar's intricate score.

Complementing Elgar's work are Frank Bridge's Three Idylls for String Quartet, H. 67. These pieces offer a delicate contrast, with their lyrical and expressive nature providing a serene interlude. Bridge's compositions are beautifully rendered by the Coull Quartet, highlighting their versatility and sensitivity to different musical styles.

The album concludes with William Walton's String Quartet in A Minor, a work that demands technical prowess and emotional resonance. The Coull Quartet delivers a powerful performance, bringing out the dramatic and introspective qualities of Walton's music.

Recorded in 1994 and released under the Hyperion label, this album is a testament to the Coull Quartet's skill and dedication to chamber music. With a total duration of approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes, it offers a comprehensive and engaging listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises to be a rewarding addition to your collection.

July 1, 1994

℗ 1994 Hyperion Records Limited

About Coull Quartet

The Coull Quartet, founded in 1974 at the Royal Academy of Music in London, is a distinguished English string quartet that has captivated audiences worldwide with their rich and diverse repertoire. Under the initial guidance of the renowned quartet leader Sidney Griller, the ensemble quickly established itself as a formidable force in the chamber music scene. With two of its original members still performing, the Coull Quartet has maintained a consistent and high level of artistry throughout its career.

The quartet has performed extensively across the UK, Europe, the Americas, Australia, China, India, and the Far East, earning acclaim for their precise intonation, balance, and technical prowess. Their discography boasts over 30 recordings, featuring works from the classical canon, such as the complete quartets of Mendelssohn and Schubert, to contemporary British chamber music. Notably, their CD of quartets by Maw and Britten on the Somm label received universal praise.

In addition to their concert performances, the Coull Quartet is deeply committed to education and community engagement. They have worked on various educational schemes with local primary schools and have been involved in unique projects, such as their New Music 20x12 award for the Cultural Olympiad, where they collaborated with the University of Warwick's Sports Centre during the 2012 Olympic Games. Their dedication to both performance and education makes the Coull Quartet a beloved and respected ensemble in the classical music world.