Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical music with the Wiener Oktett's exquisite rendition of Mendelssohn's Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, and Rimsky-Korsakov's Quintet in B-Flat Major. This album, released in 1973 under Universal Music Australia Pty. Ltd., is a masterful display of chamber music that showcases the Wiener Oktett's virtuosity and the enduring appeal of these classical masterpieces.
The Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, is a four-movement work that begins with an Allegro moderato, ma con fuoco, setting a lively and passionate tone. The Andante movement offers a moment of reflection, while the Scherzo. Allegro leggierissimo brings a playful and lighthearted energy. The Presto finale concludes the octet with a thrilling and dynamic crescendo.
Complementing the octet is Rimsky-Korsakov's Quintet in B-Flat Major, a three-movement work that starts with an Allegro con brio, followed by a serene Andante, and concludes with a lively Rondo allegretto. The quintet's rich harmonies and intricate melodies are a testament to Rimsky-Korsakov's compositional genius.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, this album is a perfect blend of Mendelssohn's romanticism and Rimsky-Korsakov's exoticism, performed with precision and passion by the Wiener Oktett. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.