Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Joseph Haydn's "Sonnen-Quartette" Op. 20, a masterful collection of six string quartets that showcase the composer's ingenuity and musical prowess. Released in 1994 by Deutsche Grammophon, this album is a cornerstone of classical chamber music, offering a rich and diverse listening experience that spans nearly two hours.
Haydn, often referred to as the "Father of the String Quartet," composed these works in 1772, and they remain a testament to his innovative spirit. The "Sonnen-Quartette" Op. 20 is a journey through a variety of emotions and musical landscapes, from the lively and spirited Allegro di molto to the serene and contemplative Adagio. Each quartet is a distinct gem, yet together they form a cohesive and captivating whole.
The album opens with the String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1, and continues through a range of keys and moods, culminating in the String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6. Haydn's mastery of form and harmony is evident in every movement, from the intricate fugues to the graceful minuets. The performances on this recording are impeccable, bringing out the full depth and nuance of Haydn's compositions.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Sonnen-Quartette" Op. 20 is a must-listen. It's a chance to experience the genius of Joseph Haydn and understand why his music has endured for centuries. This album is not just a collection of pieces but a celebration of the string quartet form, showcasing Haydn's ability to blend technical brilliance with emotional resonance.
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: I. Allegro moderatoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: II. Menuetto. AllegrettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: III. Affettuoso e sostenutoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20 No. 1: IV. Finale. PrestoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: I. ModeratoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: II. Capriccio. AdagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: III. Menuetto. AllegrettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in C Major, Op. 20 No. 2: IV. Fuga a 4 soggetti. AllegroJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: I. Allegro con spiritoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: II. Menuetto allegrettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: III. Poco adagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 20 No. 3: IV. Finale. Allegro moltoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: I. Allegro di moltoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: II. Un poco adagio affettuosoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: III. Menuetto. Allegretto alla zingareseJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in D Major, Op. 20 No. 4: IV. Presto scherzandoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: I. Allegro moderatoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: II. MenuettoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: III. AdagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in F Minor, Op. 20 No. 5: IV. Fuga a 2 soggettiJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: I. Allegro di molto e scherzandoJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: II. AdagioJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: III. MenuetJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
String Quartet in A Major, Op. 20 No. 6: IV. Fuga a 3 soggetti. AllegroJoseph Haydn, Hagen Quartett, Lukas Hagen, Rainer Schmidt, Veronika Hagen, Clemens Hagen
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