Maw: String Quartet No. 3 - Britten: String Quartet No. 3 - Coull Quartet

Album Details

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of chamber music with the Coull Quartet's 2014 release, "Maw: String Quartet No. 3 - Britten: String Quartet No. 3." This album is a testament to the quartet's versatility and mastery, featuring a diverse range of compositions that showcase their exceptional talent.

The album begins with Nicholas Maw's String Quartet No. 3, a five-movement work that explores a wide spectrum of emotions and musical styles. From the gentle, graceful opening of "Moderato grazioso" to the playful, whimsical "Burlesque" and the solemn, reflective "Recitative and passacaglia (La serenissima)," the Coull Quartet navigates Maw's intricate compositions with finesse and precision.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Benjamin Britten's String Quartet No. 3, Op. 94. This four-movement work is a tour de force of musical expression, with each movement offering a unique blend of intensity, lyricism, and technical virtuosity. The Coull Quartet's interpretation is both sensitive and powerful, capturing the essence of Britten's musical language.

In addition to the two string quartets, the album also features three divertimenti by Nicholas Maw. These short, lively pieces provide a delightful contrast to the more substantial works on the album, showcasing the Coull Quartet's ability to adapt to a wide range of musical styles.

With a total duration of just over an hour, this album is a feast for the ears, offering a rich and varied listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned chamber music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, the Coull Quartet's "Maw: String Quartet No. 3 - Britten: String Quartet No. 3" is sure to captivate and inspire.

1 februari 2014

(P) 2014 SOMM Recordings

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.

Maw: String Quartet No. 3 - Britten: String Quartet No. 3

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