Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Joseph Haydn's "Sonnen-Quartette" Op. 20, a masterful collection of six string quartets composed between 1770 and 1772. This album, performed by the renowned Hagen Quartett and released on Deutsche Grammophon in 1994, offers a captivating journey through the intricate and expressive world of classical chamber music.
Spanning a total of 1 hour and 57 minutes, the "Sonnen-Quartette" Op. 20 is a testament to Haydn's innovative spirit and his pivotal role in the development of the string quartet form. The quartets, named after an intricate engraving that adorned their first publication, are a laboratory of Haydn's compositional genius, showcasing his ability to blend technical mastery with profound emotional depth.
The album begins with the String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1, and continues through a diverse range of keys and moods, each quartet offering a unique exploration of musical expression. From the lively "Allegro moderato" of the first quartet to the intricate "Fuga a 3 soggetti" of the final quartet in A Major, Haydn's compositions are a delightful blend of complexity and accessibility.
The Hagen Quartett's performance is nothing short of exceptional, bringing Haydn's compositions to life with precision, passion, and a deep understanding of the music's historical and stylistic context. Their interpretation highlights the intricate counterpoint, the rich harmonies, and the dynamic range that make these quartets a cornerstone of the classical repertoire.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Haydn's "Sonnen-Quartette" Op. 20 is a must-listen. This album is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a journey through the mind of one of the greatest composers of the classical era, offering insights into his creative process and his enduring influence on Western music.
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: I. Allegro moderatoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: II. Menuetto. AllegrettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: III. Affettuoso e sostenutoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: IV. Finale. PrestoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: I. ModeratoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: II. Capriccio. AdagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: III. Menuetto. AllegrettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: IV. Fuga a 4 soggetti. AllegroJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: I. Allegro con spiritoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: II. Menuetto allegrettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: III. Poco adagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: IV. Finale. Allegro moltoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: I. Allegro di moltoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: II. Un poco adagio affettuosoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: III. Menuetto. Allegretto alla zingareseJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: IV. Presto scherzandoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: I. Allegro moderatoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: II. MenuettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: III. AdagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: IV. Fuga a 2 soggettiJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: I. Allegro di molto e scherzandoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: II. AdagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: III. MenuetJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: IV. Fuga a 3 soggetti. AllegroJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
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