Lutosławski: Streichquartett - Urbanner: Streichquartett No. 4 - Berio: Notturno - Alban Berg Quartett

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of contemporary classical music with the Alban Berg Quartett's 1997 release, "Lutosławski: Streichquartett - Urbanner: Streichquartett No. 4 - Berio: Notturno." This album is a testament to the quartet's exceptional skill and versatility, showcasing their ability to navigate the complexities of modern chamber music.

The album opens with Witold Lutosławski's String Quartet, a piece that challenges the listener with its intricate rhythms and harmonies. The Alban Berg Quartett's precise and nuanced performance brings out the depth and beauty of this demanding work. Following this is Gerhard Urbanner's String Quartet No. 4, recorded live at the Vienna Konzerthaus in 1993. This performance captures the energy and immediacy of a live concert, offering a unique insight into the quartet's dynamic interplay.

The album concludes with Luciano Berio's Notturno (Quartetto III), a haunting and evocative piece that showcases the quartet's expressive range. Recorded live in 1994, this performance is a powerful demonstration of the Alban Berg Quartett's ability to convey the full emotional spectrum of contemporary classical music.

With a total runtime of just under an hour, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of modern string quartet repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Alban Berg Quartett's masterful performances are sure to captivate and inspire.

1 januari 1997

A Warner Classics release, ℗ 1997 Parlophone Records Limited

About Alban Berg Quartett

The Alban Berg Quartett, founded in Vienna in 1970 and named after the renowned composer Alban Berg, was one of the world's most celebrated string quartets until its disbandment in 2008. Comprising first violinist Günter Pichler, cellist Valentin Erben, and a rotating cast of talented musicians including Gerhard Schulz and Hatto Beyerle, the quartet was known for its exceptional performances and highly acclaimed recordings. Their discography boasts complete sets of quartets by Beethoven, Brahms, and Bartók, as well as the works of Berg and Anton Webern. Their interpretations of chamber music masterpieces by composers like Mozart have also left a lasting impact. With a career spanning nearly four decades, the Alban Berg Quartett's legacy continues to inspire classical music enthusiasts worldwide.