Simpson: String Quartets Nos. 2 & 5

Dive into the intricate world of chamber music with Robert Simpson's "Simpson: String Quartets Nos. 2 & 5," a captivating album released in 1990. This collection, performed by the esteemed Delmé Quartet, showcases Simpson's mastery of the string quartet form, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.

The album features two of Simpson's most compelling works: the String Quartet No. 2 and the String Quartet No. 5. The latter is presented in its entirety, with each of its four movements—from the energetic "Allegro molto" to the exhilarating "Prestissimo"—highlighting Simpson's unique compositional voice.

Recorded in October 1989 and released by Hyperion, this album spans 59 minutes of meticulously crafted music. Simpson, a prolific composer known for his intricate structures and profound musical insights, delivers a performance that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The Delmé Quartet's precise and expressive playing brings out the best in these works, making this album a standout in the chamber music genre. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and engaging exploration of Simpson's artistic vision.

Robert Simpson, born in Leamington, England, in 1921, was a towering figure in 20th-century British music, renowned for his symphonies and string quartets. A prolific composer and distinguished musicologist, Simpson's work is celebrated for its power, originality, and intellectual depth. His compositions, which include 11 symphonies and 16 string quartets, have been likened to those of Beethoven for their structural complexity and emotional resonance. Simpson's career spanned over three decades at the BBC, where he served as a producer and broadcaster, advocating for neglected composers and shaping the cultural landscape of the time. His resignation from the BBC in 1980 over funding cuts and orchestra reductions underscored his commitment to artistic integrity. Simpson's music, though long overlooked outside of Britain, is now gaining wider recognition thanks to dedicated recordings and advocacy from organizations like the Robert Simpson Society. His legacy as a composer and writer on music continues to inspire and challenge musicians and audiences alike.