Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Ludwig van Beethoven with "Beethoven: The Middle String Quartets." Released on January 1, 1983, under the esteemed Sony Classical label, this album is a testament to Beethoven's mastery of chamber music and his enduring influence on classical compositions.
Spanning a rich duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes, this collection features some of Beethoven's most celebrated string quartets, including the iconic "Rasumovsky" quartets (Op. 59 Nos. 1-3) and the "Harp" Quartet (Op. 74), as well as the profound "Serioso" Quartet (Op. 95). Each piece is a masterclass in musical expression, showcasing Beethoven's innovative spirit and emotional depth.
The album begins with the first "Rasumovsky" Quartet, Op. 59 No. 1, a work that blends Russian folk elements with Beethoven's signature classical style. The "Harp" Quartet, Op. 74, is notable for its delicate, harp-like arpeggios in the first movement, while the "Serioso" Quartet, Op. 95, is a powerful exploration of minor-key intensity.
Throughout the album, Beethoven's genius shines through in his complex harmonies, dynamic contrasts, and evocative melodies. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Beethoven's work, this album offers a captivating journey through the middle period of one of history's greatest composers.
(P) 1983 Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
String Quartet No. 7, Op. 59 No. 1 "Rasumovsky": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 7, Op. 59 No. 1 "Rasumovsky": II. Allegretto vivace e semore scherzandoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 7, Op. 59 No. 1 "Rasumovsky": III. Adagio molto e mestoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 7, Op. 59 No. 1 "Rasumovsky": IV. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 8, Op. 59 No. 2 "Rasumovsky": I. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 8, Op. 59 No. 2 "Rasumovsky": II. Molto adagioLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 8, Op. 59 No. 2 "Rasumovsky": III. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 8, Op. 59 No. 2 "Rasumovsky": IV. Finale - PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 9, Op. 59 No. 3 "Rasumovsky": I. Introduzione: Andante con moto - Allegro vivaceLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 9, Op. 59 No. 3 "Rasumovsky": II. Andante con moto quasi AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 9, Op. 59 No. 3 "Rasumovsky": III. Menuetto. GraziosoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 9, Op. 59 No. 3 "Rasumovsky": IV. Allegro moltoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 10, Op. 74: I. Poco adagio - AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 10, Op. 74: II. Adagio ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 10, Op. 74: III. PrestoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 10, Op. 74: IV. Allegretto con variazioniLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95: I. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95: II. Allegretto, ma non troppoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95: III. Allegro assai vivace, ma seriosoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
String Quartet No. 11 in F Minor, Op. 95: IV. Larghetto espressivo - Allegretto agitatoLudwig van Beethoven, Juilliard String Quartet
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