Schubert, Dvořák, Brahms & Schumann: Piano Quintets

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Romantic chamber music with the Alban Berg Quartett's captivating album, "Schubert, Dvořák, Brahms & Schumann: Piano Quintets." This extraordinary collection brings together four masterpieces of the piano quintet repertoire, performed by the renowned Alban Berg Quartett and featuring some of the most celebrated pianists of our time, including Elisabeth Leonskaja, Philippe Entremont, and Rudolf Buchbinder.

The album opens with Schubert's enchanting "Trout" Quintet, a work that sparkles with youthful exuberance and melodic charm. The Alban Berg Quartett and Elisabeth Leonskaja breathe new life into this beloved classic, showcasing the ensemble's impeccable musicianship and Leonskaja's delicate, expressive touch.

Next, the album journeys into the heart of the Czech countryside with Dvořák's Piano Quintet in A Major. This work is a testament to Dvořák's deep connection to his homeland, with its lively folk dances and hauntingly beautiful melodies. The Alban Berg Quartett and Philippe Entremont capture the essence of this music, delivering a performance that is both technically brilliant and deeply moving.

The album's third work is Brahms' monumental Piano Quintet in F Minor, recorded live at the Wiener Konzerthaus in 1987. This performance is a tour de force, showcasing the Alban Berg Quartett's extraordinary range and Rudolf Buchbinder's powerful, nuanced playing. The work's dramatic intensity and emotional depth are fully realized in this electrifying performance.

Finally, the album concludes with Schumann's Piano Quintet in E-Flat Major, also recorded live at Carnegie Hall in 1985. This work is a testament to Schumann's genius, with its soaring melodies and intricate counterpoint. The Alban Berg Quartett and Elisabeth Leonskaja deliver a performance that is both technically flawless and deeply expressive, bringing the album to a triumphant close.

With a total runtime of over two and a half hours, this album is a feast for the ears, offering a comprehensive exploration of the piano quintet repertoire. The Alban Berg Quartett's performances are consistently outstanding, demonstrating the ensemble's deep understanding of these works and their ability to communicate their profound emotional and intellectual content. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you.

March 7, 2008

A Warner Classics release, ℗ 2008 Parlophone Records Limited

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.

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Tracks

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