Discover the enchanting world of Joachim Raff's chamber music with the release of "String Quartets 1 & 5" on CPO. This captivating album, released on March 30, 2023, offers a rich exploration of Raff's compositional genius, spanning a total of seven movements across two quartets. The String Quartet No. 5 in G Major, Op. 138, opens with an Allegro tranquillo that sets a serene tone, followed by the lively Allegro vivace, the introspective Larghetto, and the spirited Allegretto vivace. The String Quartet No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 77, begins with a Mäßig schnell, ruhig, breit movement, transitions into a playful Sehr lustig, möglich rasch, delves into a reflective Mäßig langsam, getragen, and concludes with a dynamic Rasch. With a total duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, this album is a testament to Raff's ability to blend emotional depth with technical brilliance. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection promises a rewarding listening experience.