Harvey: Complete String Quartets & Trio

Album Description

Dive into the intricate and contemplative world of Jonathan Harvey's chamber music with this comprehensive collection of his string quartets and trio. Released in 2009 to celebrate the composer's 70th birthday, this album features four string quartets and a string trio, each a testament to Harvey's unique compositional voice. Spanning over an hour and thirty-four minutes, the album offers a rich tapestry of avant-garde chamber music that demands and rewards close attention.

The Arditti Quartet, renowned for their precision and interpretive depth, brings these works to life with stunning clarity. Harvey's music, known for its lucidity and acute detail, challenges and engages the listener from start to finish. The album opens with the String Quartet No. 1, composed in 1977, and continues with works composed roughly a decade apart, culminating in the String Quartet No. 4. The String Trio, also included, adds a unique texture to the collection.

This album is a celebration of Jonathan Harvey's enduring contribution to the world of contemporary classical music. It's a collection that will appeal to fans of avant-garde chamber music and those seeking to explore the boundaries of modern composition. The meticulous performances by the Arditti Quartet ensure that every nuance of Harvey's score is brought to the forefront, making this a compelling addition to any music lover's collection.

March 23, 2009

2009 Aeon

About Jonathan Harvey

Jonathan Harvey was a pioneering British composer renowned for his innovative works that seamlessly blend live instruments with electronics, making him the first British composer to leave a significant mark on Central European audiences. Born in Sutton Coldfield, Harvey's musical journey began as a chorister at St Michael's College, Tenbury, where he honed his skills performing multiple services weekly. His academic pursuits led him to St John's College, Cambridge, where he became a major music scholar, eventually earning several doctorates.

Harvey's compositions are celebrated for their avant-garde approach, pushing the boundaries of traditional music. His extensive body of work includes notable pieces such as 'The Angels' (1994) and numerous plays, among them 'Beautiful Thing', 'Babies', and 'Boom Bang-A-Bang'. Beyond his musical contributions, Harvey also made a significant impact as a professor at the University of Sussex from 1977 until his retirement. His legacy continues to inspire through the Jonathan Harvey Electronic Music Studio, which opened in 2019 to celebrate his enduring influence on contemporary music.