Lekeu: L'oeuvre pour quatuor à cordes

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of Guillaume Lekeu's chamber music with this captivating album, "Lekeu: L'oeuvre pour quatuor à cordes." This exquisite collection, released in 2013, features the renowned Quatuor Debussy, who bring Lekeu's compositions to life with their impeccable skill and deep understanding of the genre.

The album spans a total of nine tracks, each offering a unique glimpse into Lekeu's musical genius. The centerpiece is his String Quartet in G Major, a six-movement masterpiece that showcases the composer's ability to blend elegance and intensity. From the delicate "Allegretto quasi allegro" to the passionate "Final: Allegro assai e appassionato," this quartet is a journey through a range of emotions and musical textures.

In addition to the String Quartet, the album includes standout pieces such as "Molto adagio sempre cantante doloroso," "Meditation," and "Menuet." Each track is a testament to Lekeu's ability to create deeply moving and technically impressive compositions, even at a young age, as he passed away at just 24.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is perfect for those who appreciate the intricacies of chamber music. The Quatuor Debussy's performance is nothing short of breathtaking, making this a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Lekeu's work or discovering his music for the first time, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

March 1, 2013

2013 Timpani

About Guillaume Lekeu

Guillaume Lekeu, born in 1870 in Verviers, Belgium, was a prodigious composer whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 24. Despite his brief career, Lekeu left behind a significant body of work that has captivated audiences and musicians alike. His compositions, primarily in the chamber music genre, showcase a remarkable depth and maturity that belies his young age. Lekeu's Piano Quartet in B minor, commissioned by the renowned violinist Eugène Ysaÿe, is a standout piece that highlights his mastery of form and emotion. Born into a family of a wool merchant, Lekeu's musical journey began at the conservatory, where he honed his skills and developed his unique voice. His untimely death in 1894 robbed the world of a promising talent, but his music continues to inspire and enchant, offering a glimpse into what might have been.