Schubert: String Quintet

Franz Schubert's "String Quintet" album, released on January 1, 2012, under Warner Classics, is a captivating journey through the composer's only full-fledged string quintet, the String Quintet in C Major, Op. 163, D. 956. This album, featuring the Alban Berg Quartett, is a testament to Schubert's extraordinary compositional prowess, offering a rich and immersive experience in chamber music.

The album comprises four movements, each showcasing Schubert's unique ability to blend depth and complexity with melodic beauty. From the expansive "Allegro ma non troppo" to the intimate "Adagio," the playful "Scherzo. Presto - Trio. Andante sostenuto," and the lively "Allegretto - Più allegro," each track reveals the subtleties and grandeur of Schubert's musical vision.

Recorded at the Concert Hall, Wyastone Estate, Monmouth, England, between May 18-21, 2012, the album benefits from the acoustically superb setting, allowing the nuances of the performance to shine. The playing is detailed, muscular, and daring, with tempi that are brisk yet never rushed, and vibrato kept under tight rein, ensuring a performance that is both precise and expressive.

Critics have lauded Schubert's String Quintet in C Major as "sublime" and "extraordinary," praising its "bottomless pathos" and emotional resonance. This album captures the essence of these accolades, offering listeners a profound and engaging exploration of one of Schubert's most celebrated works. With a duration of 47 minutes, it is a concise yet powerful addition to any classical music collection.