Mercadante: Quartets for Flute & Strings

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Saverio Mercadante's chamber music with this exquisite collection of flute quartets. Released on November 17, 2023, by Dynamic, "Mercadante: Quartets for Flute & Strings" showcases the lyrical mastery and virtuosic brilliance of one of the most prolific composers of the 19th century. This album features the world première recording of Mercadante's quartets for flute and strings, performed by an ensemble of exceptional musicians, including Mario Carbotta and Marta Potulska.

The album spans a total of ten tracks, divided into three distinct flute quartets. The first two quartets, in G Major and F Major, each consist of three movements, offering a delightful blend of Allegro moderato, Siciliana, and Rondò styles. The third quartet, in E Minor, Op. 53, is a more expansive work, comprising four movements that range from the solemn Grave assai to the lively Rondò. Agitato.

Each piece is a testament to Mercadante's compositional genius, seamlessly weaving together intricate melodies and harmonies that highlight the flute's expressive range and the strings' rich textures. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises an hour of pure musical bliss. The performances are impeccable, capturing the essence of Mercadante's style and bringing his compositions to life with clarity and passion.

Saverio Mercadante, born Giuseppe Saverio Raffaele Mercadante, was a prolific Italian composer who left an indelible mark on the world of opera. Though his fame may not have endured internationally like that of his contemporaries Vincenzo Bellini, Gaetano Donizetti, or Gioachino Rossini, Mercadante's contributions to operatic structures, melodic styles, and orchestration were instrumental in shaping the dramatic techniques that Giuseppe Verdi would later build upon. Born in Altamura, Italy, in 1795, Mercadante studied a variety of instruments in Naples before focusing on composition. His works, particularly his operas, reflect his inspiration from French grand opéra, notably the works of Meyerbeer and Halévy. Mercadante's prolific output and innovative approaches make him a key transitional figure in the evolution of Italian opera between the bel canto era and the verismo movement.