Christian Ofenbauer's "String Quartets 1997-2011" is a compelling journey through the evolution of the composer's string quartet compositions over a span of 14 years. Released on NEOS Music in 2017, this album presents a collection of six quartets, each offering a unique glimpse into Ofenbauer's artistic development and innovative approach to the string quartet genre.
The album opens with "Erster Streichquartettsatz 1997," showcasing the early stages of Ofenbauer's exploration of the string quartet. The composition is followed by "Zerstörung des Zimmers/Der Zeit (Version for String Quartet)," a piece that demonstrates the composer's ability to adapt and transform his ideas into the string quartet format. The subsequent quartets, "Zweiter Streichquartettsatz 2008," "Dritter Streichquartettsatz 2009," "Vierter Streichquartettsatz 2010 'BruchStück IX'," "Fünfter Streichquartettsatz 2011," and "Sechster Streichquartettsatz 2011," each represent a distinct phase in Ofenbauer's creative process, highlighting his growth and experimentation over the years.
With a total duration of 2 hours and 23 minutes, this album offers an immersive experience into the world of Christian Ofenbauer's string quartets. The compositions are characterized by their intricate structures, rich harmonies, and expressive melodies, reflecting the composer's deep understanding of the string quartet tradition and his unique vision for its future. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.