Songs from A E Housman's: A Shropshire Lad

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the evocative world of A.E. Housman's poetry, beautifully interpreted by the Coull Quartet in their 2010 release, "Songs from A E Housman's: A Shropshire Lad." This captivating album, released under the Meridian Records label, is a testament to the quartet's mastery of chamber music, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that span a variety of moods and themes.

The album features a diverse selection of tracks, including settings of Housman's poems by various composers, as well as standalone pieces that complement the poetic narrative. The Coull Quartet, renowned for their nuanced performances, is joined by Graham Trew and Roger Vignoles, adding depth and richness to the musical landscape. The album's duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes ensures a comprehensive exploration of the themes and emotions encapsulated in Housman's poetry.

Highlights include the serene "Loveliest of Trees" and the introspective "When I was One-and-Twenty," both of which showcase the quartet's ability to convey subtle nuances in the music. The album also features lesser-known gems such as "The Western Playland" suite, which offers a unique blend of musical styles and compositions.

For fans of chamber music and classical poetry settings, this album is a treasure trove of artistic expression. The Coull Quartet's meticulous attention to detail and their ability to bring out the essence of each composition make this album a standout in their discography. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Songs from A E Housman's: A Shropshire Lad" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.

January 3, 2010

About Coull Quartet

The Coull Quartet, founded in 1974 at the Royal Academy of Music in London, is a distinguished English string quartet that has captivated audiences worldwide with their rich and diverse repertoire. Under the initial guidance of the renowned quartet leader Sidney Griller, the ensemble quickly established itself as a formidable force in the chamber music scene. With two of its original members still performing, the Coull Quartet has maintained a consistent and high level of artistry throughout its career.

The quartet has performed extensively across the UK, Europe, the Americas, Australia, China, India, and the Far East, earning acclaim for their precise intonation, balance, and technical prowess. Their discography boasts over 30 recordings, featuring works from the classical canon, such as the complete quartets of Mendelssohn and Schubert, to contemporary British chamber music. Notably, their CD of quartets by Maw and Britten on the Somm label received universal praise.

In addition to their concert performances, the Coull Quartet is deeply committed to education and community engagement. They have worked on various educational schemes with local primary schools and have been involved in unique projects, such as their New Music 20x12 award for the Cultural Olympiad, where they collaborated with the University of Warwick's Sports Centre during the 2012 Olympic Games. Their dedication to both performance and education makes the Coull Quartet a beloved and respected ensemble in the classical music world.