Vincent d'Indy: Intégrale des quatuors

Dive into the rich, romantic world of Vincent d'Indy with this comprehensive collection of his string quartets and sextet, performed by the renowned Quatuor Joachim. Released in 2002 by Calliope, this 2-disc set offers a generous 2 hours and 8 minutes of captivating music, showcasing d'Indy's mastery of the chamber music form.

The album presents all three of d'Indy's string quartets, each a unique journey through his compositional evolution. The First Quartet in D Major, Op. 35, opens with a slow, sustained movement that gradually animates, setting the stage for the introspective second movement and the lively, folk-inspired third. The Second Quartet in E Major, Op. 45, begins with a lively, animated movement, while the Third Quartet in D-Flat Major, Op. 96, features a playful, joyous interlude and a lively, dance-like finale.

In addition to the quartets, the album also includes d'Indy's Sextuor in B-Flat Major, Op. 92, a delightful work that showcases his skill in writing for a larger ensemble. The sextet's varied movements, from the sonata-like entrance to the lively divertissement and the theme and variations finale, provide a satisfying conclusion to this exploration of d'Indy's chamber music.

Whether you're a longtime admirer of Vincent d'Indy or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling introduction to his unique voice in the romantic chamber music tradition. The Quatuor Joachim's polished performances bring out the best in these works, making this a valuable addition to any classical music collection.

Vincent d'Indy (1851-1931) was a towering figure in French music, renowned for his compositions and his influential role as an educator. Born in Paris, d'Indy was a devoted student of César Franck, whose teachings deeply shaped his musical style. A fervent admirer of Richard Wagner, d'Indy's works often reflect Wagner's dramatic and harmonic innovations, blending them with a distinct French sensibility. His prolific output includes symphonies, operas, and sacred choral works, all marked by a rigorous craftsmanship and a nationalistic spirit. D'Indy's impact extended beyond his compositions; as a co-founder of the Schola Cantorum and the Société Nationale de Musique, he played a pivotal role in shaping French musical education and promoting French music both at home and abroad. His legacy endures as one of the most important composers of the French post-romantic era.