Kjell Habbestad: Quattro Stazioni

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Kjell Habbestad's "Quattro Stazioni," a remarkable album released in 2020 under the Lawo Classics label. This collection showcases Habbestad's exceptional compositional prowess, featuring a blend of string quartets, a clarinet quintet, and a divertimento for clarinet and piano. The album spans a diverse range of emotions and styles, from the impetuous energy of "Impetuoso" to the tender affection of "Affettuoso," and the playful joy of "Giocoso."

The centerpiece of the album is the String Quartet No. 1, Op. 21, titled "Quattro stazioni," which inspired the album's name. This quartet is a journey through four distinct movements, each evoking the essence of a different season. The String Quartet No. 2, Op. 91, adds another layer of depth with its expansive allegro, tranquil adagio, and lively scherzo. The Clarinet Quintet, Op. 85, and the Divertimento for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 86, further enrich the album with their unique charm and elegance.

Performed by the esteemed Vertavo String Quartet, along with Björn Nyman on clarinet and Sveinung Bjelland on piano, this album is a testament to the collaborative brilliance of these talented musicians. Recorded in the acoustically rich setting of Grorud Church in Oslo, the album captures the nuances and subtleties of Habbestad's compositions with stunning clarity.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "Quattro Stazioni" offers a comprehensive exploration of Habbestad's musical vision. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression. Dive into the evocative melodies and intricate harmonies, and let the music of Kjell Habbestad transport you to a world of sound and emotion.