Rózsa: String Quartets 1 & 2 - String Trio - Miklós Rózsa

Album Description

Dive into the rich and varied world of Miklós Rózsa's chamber music with this captivating collection, featuring his String Quartets No. 1 and No. 2, along with his String Trio, Op. 1. This album, released on Naxos in October 2013, offers a comprehensive journey through Rózsa's compositional evolution, showcasing his mastery of the string quartet and trio forms.

The Tippett Quartet brings these works to life with their impeccable technique and expressive depth. The String Quartet No. 2, Op. 38, composed in 1967, is a testament to Rózsa's late-style brilliance, blending neoclassical elements with modern harmonies. The quartet's four movements, from the energetic "Allegro con brio" to the resolute "Allegro risoluto," demonstrate Rózsa's ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

In contrast, the String Trio, Op. 1, hails from Rózsa's early career, offering a glimpse into his formative years as a composer. This four-movement work, recorded in its original published version, reveals the seeds of Rózsa's distinctive voice, already evident in his youth.

The String Quartet No. 1, Op. 22, rounds out the collection, providing a mid-career perspective. This quartet, with its unique blend of Hungarian folk influences and modernist techniques, is a fascinating exploration of Rózsa's stylistic development.

With a total duration of just over an hour and fourteen minutes, this album is a treasure trove for fans of classical music and chamber music enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Miklós Rózsa or a newcomer to his music, this collection is sure to delight and inspire. The album's elegant packaging and high-quality recording ensure an enjoyable listening experience, making it a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.

October 1, 2013

2013 Naxos

About Miklós Rózsa

Miklós Rózsa, born in Budapest in 1907, was a prolific Hungarian-American composer whose musical journey took him across Europe and to Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on both the concert hall and the silver screen. A child prodigy, Rózsa began his musical education at the age of five, studying the violin and later the viola and piano. His early influences included the rich tapestry of Hungarian folk music and the classical traditions of Bartók and Liszt.

Rózsa's formal training began at the Leipzig Conservatory, where he earned his doctorate in music by the age of 23. His career spanned multiple countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with frequent visits to Italy. Throughout his life, Rózsa maintained a dual commitment to both absolute concert music and film scoring, creating nearly one hundred film scores that are as iconic as they are diverse.

Among his most celebrated works are the scores for epic films like "Ben-Hur," "Spellbound," and "El Cid," each showcasing his distinctive use of orchestration and his ability to evoke powerful emotions. Beyond his film work, Rózsa's concert compositions, such as his Viola Concerto, are considered masterpieces and stand as testament to his deep musicality and innovation.

Rózsa's legacy endures not just in his compositions but also in his influence on the art of film music, making him one of the most respected and versatile composers of his time. His music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a rich and immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of time and genre.