Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Ludwig van Beethoven's middle string quartets with this captivating collection, "Beethoven: Middle String Quartets Nos 7 - 11." Released on January 1, 1992, under Warner Classics International, this album is a testament to Beethoven's enduring genius and his unparalleled contribution to classical music.
Spanning a generous duration of 2 hours and 46 minutes, this album features four of Beethoven's most celebrated string quartets: the Razumovsky Quartets (Nos. 7, 8, and 9), and the Harp Quartet (No. 10), as well as the Serioso Quartet (No. 11). Each quartet is a masterclass in composition, showcasing Beethoven's innovative spirit and emotional depth.
The Razumovsky Quartets, dedicated to the Russian ambassador to Vienna, Count Razumovsky, are known for their complexity and richness. They blend Russian folk themes with classical structures, creating a unique and captivating sound. The Harp Quartet, so named for its distinctive use of pizzicato techniques that mimic the sound of a harp, is a study in contrast and variation. The Serioso Quartet, with its intense and dramatic passages, offers a glimpse into Beethoven's more introspective and serious side.
This album is not just a compilation of Beethoven's works; it's a journey through the evolution of his string quartet compositions. Each piece is a world unto itself, filled with dynamic shifts, intricate melodies, and profound emotional resonance. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Beethoven's works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": II. Allegretto vivace e sempre scherzandoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": III. Adagio molto e mestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 7 in F Major, Op. 59 No. 1 "Razumovsky": IV. Thème russe. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": II. Molto adagioLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": III. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 8 in E Minor, Op. 59 No. 2 "Razumovsky": IV. Finale. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": I. Introduzione. Andante con moto - Allegro vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": II. Andante con moto quasi allegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": III. Menuetto. GraziosoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 9 in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3 "Razumovsky": IV. Allegro moltoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": I. Poco adagio - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": II. Adagio ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": III. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 10 in E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp": IV. Allegretto con variazioniLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": II. Allegretto ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": III. Allegro assai vivace, ma seriosoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet
Beethoven: String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95 "Quartetto serioso": IV. Larghetto espressivo - Allegretto agitatoLudwig van Beethoven, Vermeer Quartet