Ligeti: Métamorphoses nocturnes

Dive into the avant-garde world of György Ligeti with this captivating album, released in 2013 by the Aeon label. This collection features two of Ligeti's most renowned string quartets, performed by the exceptionally talented Béla Quartet. Despite their youth, the Béla Quartet demonstrates a remarkable mastery of Ligeti's complex and innovative compositions.

The album opens with Ligeti's String Quartet No. 1, "Métamorphoses nocturnes," a piece that showcases the composer's signature microtonal and textural experimentation. This work, completed in 1954, is a testament to Ligeti's early exploration of new musical territories. The quartet's intricate interplay and the cello's ascending fifths against the viola's descending line create a mesmerizing sonic landscape.

The second quartet on the album is a four-movement work that spans a wide range of moods and tempos. From the nervoso energy of the first movement to the delicate precision of the third, and culminating in the tumultuous finale, this quartet is a journey through Ligeti's creative genius. The fifth and final movement, "Allegro con delicatezza - 'Wie aus der Ferne'," offers a hauntingly beautiful contrast to the preceding turmoil.

The album also includes Ligeti's Sonata for Cello, a work that highlights the instrument's expressive range. The two movements, "Dialogo" and "Capriccio," provide a compelling counterpoint to the string quartets, showcasing Ligeti's versatility as a composer.

With a total duration of 50 minutes, this album is a comprehensive introduction to Ligeti's string quartet repertoire. The Béla Quartet's performance is both technically impressive and deeply expressive, bringing Ligeti's unique vision to life. Whether you're a seasoned fan of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.