A quick race through the 'Schubert's Recordings' thread reveals that it's dominated by piano and symphonic recordings, with only a mere hint of recommendations for the String Quartets, hence the creation of this thread. ;)
As with Dvorak, I'm a complete newbie to these works (not sure if I've yet heard a single one :o). Ideally, I'm after a one-box set - I can then explore further those Quartets I find I like best.
A scan on Arkiv and Amazon shows a couple of sets which catch my eye. But will these also catch my ear?
Melos Quartet (http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=6032)
Auryn Quartet (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Schubert-Complete-String-Quartets-Franz/dp/B000034CYB/ref=sr_1_1/026-2676685-3936431?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1191679925&sr=8-1)
Like I say, I'm no expert here, so your help is greatly needed. And yes, I'll happily consider cycles that aren't available in a single box, as well as recommendations for individual Quartets not performed by the same ensemble.
Thanks in advance. :)
Well unless you're strange like Gurn, I think that you will most likely discover that you'll like the late works alot more than the early ones which are imo only mildly pleasant to listen to once or twice.
I encourage you to try the other Melos set on HM because it has (a) better sound, (b) better playing, and (c) better price because it only does the good quartets. That being said if you are absolutely committed to getting a complete set, both that you have linked are good, and I prefer Melos. Did that set (I don't remember) include the quintet with Rostropovich? I ask that because I love that recording of Schubert's string quintet, in fact maybe I should listen to it today! :)
Mark - interesting subject for a new thread! ;D
And I'll be following it with interest, because I'm in the market for a Schubert SQ cycle as well.
I got this cycle with the Leipziger SQ some time ago. And though is quite good, it leaves me wanting. :-\
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/41VRYDJMCFL._SS400_.jpg)
Q
Thanks, David. :)
Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 06:35:24 AM
Did that set (I don't remember) include the quintet with Rostropovich? I ask that because I love that recording of Schubert's string quintet, in fact maybe I should listen to it today! :)
Doesn't appear to.
This is what I have, Mark (I know, it's incomplete):
http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-Late-String-Quartets-Quintet/dp/B000S5AKJ8/ref=sr_1_5/102-3484879-1065746?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1191681329&sr=8-5 (http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-Late-String-Quartets-Quintet/dp/B000S5AKJ8/ref=sr_1_5/102-3484879-1065746?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1191681329&sr=8-5)
I really enjoy them and the sonics are incredible too!
Quote from: Que on October 06, 2007, 06:36:09 AM
Mark - interesting subject for a new thread! ;D
;D
Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 06:35:24 AM
Well unless you're strange like Gurn, I think that you will most likely discover that you'll like the late works alot more than the early ones which are imo only mildly pleasant to listen to once or twice.
Yes and they are all included in my recommendation. :)
Quote from: George on October 06, 2007, 06:37:34 AM
This is what I have, Mark (I know, it's incomplete):
http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-Late-String-Quartets-Quintet/dp/B000S5AKJ8/ref=sr_1_5/102-3484879-1065746?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1191681329&sr=8-5 (http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-Late-String-Quartets-Quintet/dp/B000S5AKJ8/ref=sr_1_5/102-3484879-1065746?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1191681329&sr=8-5)
I really enjoy them and the sonics are incredible too!
I can be partial to The Lindsays, George, so worth considering. ;)
Quote from: Mark on October 06, 2007, 06:38:50 AM
I can be partial to The Lindsays, George, so worth considering. ;)
Yeah, you can buy a track or two from amazon and decide. They have 256 bitrate I believe.
Quote from: George on October 06, 2007, 06:40:58 AM
Yeah, you can buy a track or two from amazon and decide. They have 256 bitrate I believe.
Oh, have Amazon started the download service in the UK? I hadn't noticed. ???
Quote from: George on October 06, 2007, 06:37:34 AM
This is what I have, Mark (I know, it's incomplete):
http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-Late-String-Quartets-Quintet/dp/B000S5AKJ8/ref=sr_1_5/102-3484879-1065746?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1191681329&sr=8-5 (http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-Late-String-Quartets-Quintet/dp/B000S5AKJ8/ref=sr_1_5/102-3484879-1065746?ie=UTF8&s=dmusic&qid=1191681329&sr=8-5)
I really enjoy them and the sonics are incredible too!
I second George's choice.
Also for a FANTASTIC single CD of two of Schubert's best quartets, this recording is amazing!
http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-String-Quartets-Nos-13/dp/B000I5Y8W8/ref=pd_bbs_3/105-4924212-6205218?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1191682195&sr=1-3
Quote from: hornteacher on October 06, 2007, 06:55:33 AM
Also for a FANTASTIC single CD of two of Schubert's best quartets, this recording is amazing!
http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-String-Quartets-Nos-13/dp/B000I5Y8W8/ref=pd_bbs_3/105-4924212-6205218?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1191682195&sr=1-3
Knew someone would suggest this. It's had superb reviews here in the UK.
Quote from: Mark on October 06, 2007, 06:55:10 AM
Oh, have Amazon started the download service in the UK? I hadn't noticed. ???
Forgot about that, buddy. Sorry. :-[
Quote from: Mark on October 06, 2007, 06:56:36 AM
Knew someone would suggest this. It's had superb reviews here in the UK.
Well the Brits are obviously very highly intelligent and cultured people. ;D
My favourite Schubert string quartets disc:
(http://classique.abeillemusique.com/images/references/a48.jpg)
If the whole cycle ever reemerges, I'll be running to the store (or clicking like mad.. ;D).
Q
Quote from: Que on October 06, 2007, 07:13:40 AM
My favourite Schubert string quartets disc:
(http://classique.abeillemusique.com/images/references/a48.jpg)
If the whole cycle ever reemerges, I'll be running to the store (or clicking like mad.. ;D).
Q
Lemme guess....HIP?
I have this...
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/41X1WT32YZL._AA240_.jpg)
..and that's about it.
Quote from: George on October 06, 2007, 07:16:18 AM
Lemme guess....HIP?
How
do you do that? 8)
Yes, my name is
Que and I am a Festetics Quartet nut. 0:)
Q
Quote from: Que on October 06, 2007, 07:26:33 AM
How do you do that? 8)
Yes, my name is Que and I am a Festetics Quartet nut. 0:)
Q
I use the force. 8)
Haven't you seen me in the diner?
I would recommend NOT starting with all the quartets. You would risk musical indigestion. Get to know a couple of the best ones to begin with. In my view, the recent GROC re-issue of the Busch Quartet in the last quartet, plus Death & the Maiden, is quite unparalleled.
Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 06:35:24 AM
Well unless you're strange like Gurn, I think that you will most likely discover that you'll like the late works alot more than the early ones which are imo only mildly pleasant to listen to once or twice.
I encourage you to try the other Melos set on HM because it has (a) better sound, (b) better playing, and (c) better price because it only does the good quartets. That being said if you are absolutely committed to getting a complete set, both that you have linked are good, and I prefer Melos. Did that set (I don't remember) include the quintet with Rostropovich? I ask that because I love that recording of Schubert's string quintet, in fact maybe I should listen to it today! :)
I am very fond of my Melos set, even though it is complete. ::) :D
I suppose you could shop around and build your own set of the best performance of each work, but that gets old for someone who isn't dedicated as hell to the concept. Overall, an excellent buy (I paid $35).
No, David, Rostro plays it with the Emersons, at least that's the one I have. Very nice performance too. If he also plays it with the Melos, that's new to me.
8)
----------------
Now playing: Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition - Jeno Jando - Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition for Piano - 01 (http://www.foxytunes.com/artist/jeno+jando/track/mussorgsky+pictures+at+an+exhibition+for+piano)
For single discs, alongside the new Hyperion (which I have not heard), this is another superb one:
(http://www.mdt.co.uk/public/pictures/products/standard/E8580.jpg)
I bought it at the same time as snapping up their Haydn (no doubt it'll be reissued in a box at a low price soon and I'll be kicking myself, but it was worth it :P) and it's chaming, and normal QM style - medium-ish tempos, polished, shining tones, bringing the music to life IMO. AKA: unfrightening HIP.
For a complete set, Third Ear likes the Leipzig Quartet.
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on October 06, 2007, 11:47:39 AM
No, David, Rostro plays it with the Emersons, at least that's the one I have. Very nice performance too. If he also plays it with the Melos, that's new to me.
Surprisingly enough he has recorded it more than once, the first when he was in his prime was with Melos. ;D
Quote from: DavidW on October 06, 2007, 12:00:30 PM
Surprisingly enough he has recorded it more than once, the first when he was in his prime was with Melos. ;D
Ah, well not so surprising, I suppose. I like that Emerson version with him. If the other tops it, it must be damned good. :)
8)
----------------
Now playing: Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition - Jeno Jando - Balakirev Islamey for Piano - 02 (http://www.foxytunes.com/artist/jeno+jando/track/balakirev+islamey+for+piano)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on October 06, 2007, 12:06:47 PM
Ah, well not so surprising, I suppose. I like that Emerson version with him. If the other tops it, it must be damned good. :)
8)
Yeah I don't know, guess it depends which counted more-- experience or arthritis! :D
Quote from: Harry Collier on October 06, 2007, 11:23:16 AM
I would recommend NOT starting with all the quartets. You would risk musical indigestion. Get to know a couple of the best ones to begin with. In my view, the recent GROC re-issue of the Busch Quartet in the last quartet, plus Death & the Maiden, is quite unparalleled.
Thanks, Harry.
Of course, it doesn't automatically follow that if I buy a complete set, I'll listen to the recordings in order. I'll probably start with the later ones and work back over a few months. ;)
Quote from: dtw on October 06, 2007, 11:59:43 AM
For a complete set, Third Ear likes the Leipzig Quartet.
Third Ear is Tin Ear.
These are all one needs.
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/31HE5A0ZMHL._AA240_.jpg)
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/41ZKV470FFL._AA240_.jpg)
I've long had a high regard for the Takács Quartet in Schubert - dating back to their 1990s Decca recordings. It's high-voltage music-making without sacrificing subtlety - and ferreting out the subtleties is SO important in Schubert.
Since then the Takács have come along and re-recorded two of the late quartets on Hyperion (with new violist) and the tradition of high quality continues.
However, until the 'new' Takács gets round to re-recording the rest of the late quartet music (D.887 & D.703) I would still recommend the old (OOP) Decca recordings. Still front-runners after all these years. Hard to find, possibly, but no one would go wrong getting to know these recordings.
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/513DF23RBFL._SS500_.jpg)
Snatched this one up today for $3.99 new!
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/31/1a/1cf01363ada0fc1c4b460110.L.jpg)
Haven't heard it yet.
The best D887?
Also, a 50s complete set by the Philharmonic? Qrt (members of the orchestra)....supposedly light years ahead of everything else?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41vTR-ZA9zL._SS400_.jpg)
Quite possibly the first HIP recording of Death and Maiden.
Quote from: snyprrr on June 08, 2009, 01:27:46 PM
The best D887?
(http://i10.ebayimg.com/05/i/001/1c/b2/242e_1.JPG)
Four surgeons cutting you to pieces.
Quote from: Valentino on June 08, 2009, 02:11:26 PM
(http://i10.ebayimg.com/05/i/001/1c/b2/242e_1.JPG)
Four surgeons cutting you to pieces.
Wow! THAT looks hot!!! :o
I think I might have answered my Op.95 question, too.
Honestly, seeing that made me Pavlov.
That HIP disc looks like it could be nicely creepy.
Also, Melos/DG is different than Melos/Harmonia Mundi, no?
Quote from: snyprrr on June 08, 2009, 06:43:40 PM
Also, Melos/DG is different than Melos/Harmonia Mundi, no?
Correct. Same members, later date for HM.
Recommendations much appreciated for the best recording of the G Major Quartet, D887.
I want one with pace and excitement, and one which finds some joy in the music.
Quote from: snyprrr on June 08, 2009, 06:40:34 PM
That HIP disc looks like it could be nicely creepy.
Schubert meant the melody to sound that way! :)
Quote from: snyprrr on June 08, 2009, 06:43:40 PM
Also, Melos/DG is different than Melos/Harmonia Mundi, no?
yes. These are (obviously) two different recordings.
Quote from: masolino on June 08, 2009, 01:33:01 PM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41vTR-ZA9zL._SS400_.jpg)
Quite possibly the first HIP recording of Death and Maiden.
Now, that's a disk I would like to have. Copies must be thin on the ground, as I have never seen it listed anywhere. Thanks for pointing it out anyway. :)
8)
Quote from: Mandryka on June 08, 2009, 09:19:43 PM
Recommendations much appreciated for the best recording of the G Major Quartet, D887.
I want one with pace and excitement, and one which finds some joy in the music.
Should there be any joy in D887? In the lighter moments I hear beautiful melancholy, but never any outright joyfulness.
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on June 09, 2009, 04:24:48 AM
Now, that's a disk I would like to have. Copies must be thin on the ground, as I have never seen it listed anywhere.
Really? listing @ amazon (one in stock, more @ the marketplace) (http://www.amazon.com/Franz-Schubert-Tod-M%C3%A4dchen-Rosamunde/dp/B001EVPC16/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1244556754&sr=1-1)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on June 09, 2009, 04:24:48 AM
Now, that's a disk I would like to have. Copies must be thin on the ground, as I have never seen it listed anywhere. Thanks for pointing it out anyway. :)
8)
I bought my copy here,
Gurn: http://www.cduniverse.com/productinfo.asp?pid=7786841&style=classical, slightly more cheap than Amazon.
Quote from: Antoine Marchand on June 09, 2009, 06:23:34 AM
slightly more cheap than Amazon.
Well I list Amazon first because this very forum exists through its support. No, I don't get any commission from Amazon if things are bought through the links I post.
Quote from: masolino on June 09, 2009, 06:14:08 AM
Really? listing @ amazon (one in stock, more @ the marketplace) (http://www.amazon.com/Franz-Schubert-Tod-M%C3%A4dchen-Rosamunde/dp/B001EVPC16/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1244556754&sr=1-1)
Thanks for the links, guys. Strangely, I had done my initial search on the keyword "Terpsycordes" and only got a couple of hits, not Schubert. Well, if you look at the page you see that their name isn't mentioned except on the picture of the album cover. Now, that's strange. ::)
8)
Quote from: masolino on June 09, 2009, 06:25:29 AM
Well I list Amazon first because this very forum exists through its support. No, I don't get any commission from Amazon if things are bought through the links I post.
You have unmasked me,
Masolino. I am a commission agent for CD Universe. ;D
I bought that CD some months ago and I did put the cover on the HIP Romatics thread. My only problem about it is that doesn't sound too much HIP for me.
Quote from: Antoine Marchand on June 09, 2009, 06:47:38 AM
My only problem about it is that doesn't sound too much HIP for me.
I assume that the musicians only wanted to make a recording that is
moderately informed by historical practices. ;)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on June 09, 2009, 06:44:35 AM
Well, if you look at the page you see that their name isn't mentioned except on the picture of the album cover. Now, that's strange. ::)
Blame it on the people who build databases for music distributors and retailers, as some of them are happy with a partial or even random selection of keywords.
Quote from: masolino on June 09, 2009, 07:32:56 AM
I assume that the musicians only wanted to make a recording that is moderately informed by historical practices. ;)
That was, in a certain way, my impression :). I planned to listen to this recording again tonight, but I was trapped by the Egarr's Brandenburgs. 8)
Quote from: Antoine Marchand on June 09, 2009, 07:14:29 PM
but I was trapped by the Egarr's Brandenburgs. 8)
Yes his Bach is interesting in a controversial way -- some people simply cannot get over his somewhat wilful treatment of phrasing and rhythm in Bach. The Quatuor Terpysichordes in Schubert, on the other hand, are more closely aligned with the establishment; they seem to be contented with the new textures and possibilities of articulation afforded by the use of gut strings and mid-19th century set-up of their bows and instruments (see their performer's notes in the booklet).
Quote from: masolino on June 09, 2009, 07:56:04 PM
Yes his Bach is interesting in a controversial way -- some people simply cannot get over his somewhat wilful treatment of phrasing and rhythm in Bach. The Quatuor Terpysichordes in Schubert, on the other hand, are more closely aligned with the establishment; they seem to be contented with the new textures and possibilities of articulation afforded by the use of gut strings and mid-19th century set-up of their bows and instruments (see their performer's notes in the booklet).
I agree with you,
Masolino. I did read the liner notes and noted the same thing: a marked emphasis on the "instrumentarium".
On the other hand, in the Egarr's recording I have loved the beautiful textures created among the instruments. All the recording is full of little "conversations" and every voice is clearly listened to. I suppose those are the benefits of the OV(or I)PP thesis and certain willful treatment of phrasing and rhythm its costs.
Chilingirian on Schubert? Anyone?
I found one thing on Chilingirian that was positive, and then one review knocking the "grey" sound. I thought Nimbus always had the Nimbus sound...I know it doesn't always work, so maybe that's what happened, but I'm pretty sure the Medici/Beethoven at least "sounds" good.
But does anyone know D887 by Yo-Yo Ma, Kim Kashkashian, Gidon Kremer, and ?Phillips on CBS with Mozart Adagio+Fugue??? I almost wouldn't even care how the performance went... but it sooounds like a hoot!
Quote from: snyprrr on June 14, 2009, 01:11:13 AM
I found one thing on Chilingirian that was positive, and then one review knocking the "grey" sound. I thought Nimbus always had the Nimbus sound...I know it doesn't always work, so maybe that's what happened, but I'm pretty sure the Medici/Beethoven at least "sounds" good.
But does anyone know D887 by Yo-Yo Ma, Kim Kashkashian, Gidon Kremer, and ?Phillips on CBS with Mozart Adagio+Fugue??? I almost wouldn't even care how the performance went... but it sooounds like a hoot!
I haven't heard that album, but Ma, Kashkashian and Kremer have recorded one of the best K563s around. That's reference for the divertimento on modern instruments, so I'd bet that this recording with the same forces is probably very, very good at the very least.
Quote from: Bunny on June 15, 2009, 02:41:17 PM
I haven't heard that album, but Ma, Kashkashian and Kremer have recorded one of the best K563s around. That's reference for the divertimento on modern instruments, so I'd bet that this recording with the same forces is probably very, very good at the very least.
I would disagree about that. Admitteldy there aren't a whole lot of 563s around, but this one is peculiarly lifeless.
Quote from: Herman on June 15, 2009, 09:57:23 PM
I would disagree about that. Admitteldy there aren't a whole lot of 563s around, but this one is peculiarly lifeless.
Yes, we disagree. I love their K563 and the only one I think to compare it to is by the Trio Pasquier, and that was never released on cd.
Lydian SQ:
I must be one of those people who prefer No.8 to No.14.
D887: Ma, Kashkashian, Phillips, Kremer
Well, I just heard D887 for the very first time ever. My first thought is that I should have gotten another recording! I can tell there's some music in there somewhere...haha, no, I don't want to make it sound thaaat bad, but the acoustics are pretty tight (for being recorded at YMHA)... way too tight for this "orchestral" music.
Also, I can't tell if my ears are off, but some of these notes just don't seem to make sense, intonationally speaking. I certainly do NOT have perfect pitch, and I can't see why this team should be making any mistakes (it IS a "live" recording, though).
But even the music itself... I don't know whaaat I was expecting, but this SQ seemed like "Death & the Maiden" on steroids. I keep hearing about Schubert's still qualities (perhaps that is the Quintet in C), but this SQ definitely has some emotional issues, that's for sure! I guess I had built this SQ up in my head, and was certainly expecting something I didn't get.
I did notice in this SQ the most obvious "death" music I've heard outside of Shostakovich.
But, I must say that my aquaintance with this SQ was marred by the tight CBS recording. Some of those musical outbursts were crying out for a little room to breathe in. There was just a bit of aggression in the violin playing, too, I think (which, given, may not be such a bad thing).
I really can't comment on the playing, thought. Is this SQ supposed to sound like this? I did seem to notice that Yo-Yo was the quietest of the bunch, but the other players offered a few interesting, what I might call "idiosyncratic", sounds.
Honestly, I enjoyed SQ No.8 more.
Now I know why, when I initially asked many moons ago, you all said you like the "Rosamunde" better.
I listened to D887 again, and, predictably, I heard something else!
Now I know were Berg came from!
I want to call this the Liszt Quartet!
I'm even hearing Schnittke, and I don't know hooow much I can blame Kremer for that.
Is this the first SQ for that "rustling wind" 32nd tremolo type stuff?
Why doesn't this sound like the perfect late Beethoven SQ?
Schubert out-Beethovens Beethoven?
This is one strange SQ?
It's the "Shall I jump off the cliff"-quartet, and at the end you do not really know if you made the jump or not.
Anyone familiar with this particular recording?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51NQ9PN6DZL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
I was just looking for something different, approach-wise, and this one caught my eye. I've always liked the Hungarians, but never heard them in Schubert. :)
8)
Quote from: snyprrr on June 17, 2009, 10:35:05 PM
I listened to D887 again, and, predictably, I heard something else!
Now I know were Berg came from!
I want to call this the Liszt Quartet!
I'm even hearing Schnittke, and I don't know hooow much I can blame Kremer for that.
Is this the first SQ for that "rustling wind" 32nd tremolo type stuff?
Why doesn't this sound like the perfect late Beethoven SQ?
Schubert out-Beethovens Beethoven?
This is one strange SQ?
Try the Takács Quartet's recording. They have a terrific recording of Death and the Maiden (paired with Rosamunde -- 14 & 13 together) that is intensity to the nth degree. I like the take no prisoners interpretation, but it's not for the faint of heart. Just look at the cover illustration for a good idea of what the quartet is like.
(http://cover6.cduniverse.com/CDUCoverArt/Music/Large/7313834.jpg)
More like "Death & the Hottie" ;D!!!, I'd saaay...
Quote from: Valentino on June 17, 2009, 11:24:27 PM
It's the "Shall I jump off the cliff"-quartet, and at the end you do not really know if you made the jump or not.
Yea, this is kind of my impression too.
Quote from: Bunny on June 18, 2009, 08:39:59 AMI like the take no prisoners interpretation, but it's not for the faint of heart. (http://cover6.cduniverse.com/CDUCoverArt/Music/Large/7313834.jpg)
This IS the impression I got from this Ma-Kremer-Kashkashian cd. I guess I really wasn't expecting this SQ to be so...so...angsty. I though late Schubert was known for its placidity, its "heavenly" length, and so on (MUST be the Quintet in C, no?), but D887 is the most gothic thing I've ever heard. I really wasn't prepared for such a revelation.
The more you all chime in, the more I think that this performance that I wasn't to sure about might actually be the shiznit. The ambience still sucks, but it DOES add to the claustrophobic atmosphere.
Also, is Schubert the "inventor" of this...this "style" that I notice in the first two mvmts.? I don't know the correct word for it, but Schubert's way of going from one chord to another is verydifferent from those who came before. I haven't heard this style in late Beethoven, either. But I have heard it in Schnittke!
I hear a steady ratcheting up from "Rosamunde" <"D & M" < D887. It's the same "thing", but in D887, it just explodes.
Once again, I hear "Liszt to Berg" wrapped up in this one SQ.
The birth of hysterics in music?
Snyprrr, the quartet is called Death and the Maiden because the second movement is based on the Lied of the same name, which is a very emotional piece. I don't know if one can fully appreciate the quartet without knowing both the Lied and the poem by Matthias Claudius that inspired it. The poem is actually a dialogue between a "maiden" and "Death," with the Maiden pleading for death to stay away. It is typical for early 19th century romanticism which focused on unrequited love, premature death, madness, and other tragic themes. The final movement of the quartet is based on the Tarentella dance form -- another reference to death: According to the folk legends of southern Italy, the only hope of surviving the bite of a taratula was to dance frenetically until one recovered or died, hence the origin of the dance. With such themes reflecting Schubert's own knowledge of his infection with syphilis and the almost certainly premature death that went along with the diagnosis, I think you should have expected the darkness of this work.
I was still referring to D887. ;D
Have not been able to enjoy D & M yet. Both of these SQs (especially D887) have some kind of fevered (syph?), infected hysteria that I just can't cozy up to yet. I feeel sick listening to them, you know what I mean?...or, I feel the sickness in them?
Quote from: snyprrr on June 20, 2009, 07:29:44 AM
I was still referring to D887. ;D
Have not been able to enjoy D & M yet. Both of these SQs (especially D887) have some kind of fevered (syph?), infected hysteria that I just can't cozy up to yet. I feeel sick listening to them, you know what I mean?...or, I feel the sickness in them?
You really have to relax! Schubert was sick with a serious disease, his music may have reflected his personal anxiety, or it may have reflected the societal mood of his times. Morbid preoccupation with death was a theme that ran through German and European literature in general, especially "Gothic" literature and art. You live in the 21st century and you should be able to distance yourself enough to appreciate the music without turning it into an intellectual exercise in masochism.
Yes, mistress. 8)
Why not just ride along. 8)
Quote from: Bunny on June 20, 2009, 08:02:53 AM
You live in the 21st century and you should be able to distance yourself enough to appreciate the music without turning it into an intellectual exercise in masochism.
Yes, but very little music - even Mahlers 6th symphony - is as anguished as D 887.
Quote from: erato on June 22, 2009, 12:13:55 AM
Yes, but very little music - even Mahlers 6th symphony - is as anguished as D 887.
That's why Schnittke came to mind. Seriously, I never thought I'd label something from 1826 "disturbing." And, was it "Erato"?, talking about the Hagen disc, that it was "four surgeons cutting you apart." All of a sudden I'm thinking Burke and Hare meet Jack the Ripper!!!... but in an operatic way! No, to me, D887 has something akin to a mocking, decomposing corpse in a Poe story. Have you ever smelled death???... or, have you ever
heard the smell of death? This Schubert actually reminds me of Zorn's SQs in its morbidity. I don't even know if I like D887, but I am compelled... like rubberneckers at a horrible roadside car wreck. Death. Death. Death.
Quote from: snyprrr on June 22, 2009, 12:26:20 PM
And, was it "Erato"?, talking about the Hagen disc, that it was "four surgeons cutting you apart."
Sounds like something I might have said. I guess you could get a "four chainsaws chopping you to bits" treatment elsewhere. ;D
On a tangent to the above discussion: the 'Death and the Maiden' quartet, apart from being the first piece of chamber music I fell in love with, a sucker for angsty drama as I am (also see: Mahler ;)), must be one of the few personal favourite pieces of music of which I am content to own a very limited numbers of recordings.
Between the Busch, the Takacs and the Hagen, even the Quarteto Italiano I also own has come to feel somewhat superfluous.
Edit: My point being that the quartet seems so musically sound, and the best performances so competent, that it feels 'covered'.
Quote from: Renfield on June 23, 2009, 02:11:53 AM
Between the Busch, the Takacs and the Hagen, even the Quarteto Italiano I also own has come to feel somewhat superfluous.
Edit: My point being that the quartet seems so musically sound, and the best performances so competent, that it feels 'covered'.
Sound like it's time that I cracked open my copy of the Busch. I have the Sony CD issue. Did they make more than one recording of this work?
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on June 18, 2009, 04:48:17 AM
Anyone familiar with this particular recording?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51NQ9PN6DZL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
I was just looking for something different, approach-wise, and this one caught my eye. I've always liked the Hungarians, but never heard them in Schubert. :)
8)
Yes that's one of the best. It's worth buying if you're unhappy with your current recording. It will not offer an interpretation dramatically different from Melos if that's what you're looking for.
Quote from: DavidW on June 29, 2009, 09:14:34 AM
Yes that's one of the best. It's worth buying if you're unhappy with your current recording. It will not offer an interpretation dramatically different from Melos if that's what you're looking for.
Thanks, David. That was precisely what i wanted to know. ;)
8)
Kodaly/1,4,8:
This is the one that got all the Gramophone/Penguin love. I'm listening to it now. I have no compare except for the Lydian in No.8 (the Lydian a bit tighter). What say ye? I'm sure the Kodaly are sounding a bit polite and polished, plush, perhaps? I can sense a rustic peasant quality I'm missing. I mean, it's very nice... is this what Schubert sounds like in Heaven?
The opening of No.1 (heard for the first time) is now my favorite Schubert! Ha, ain't that something... you can hear all the way to No.15 from this intro! (especially coming after No.8 as it is on this cd!) Wow, IMHO this one out-minors the competition! Very gothic stuff, haha! (of course, the rest of the SQ doesn't really keep up until the very end)
No.4 also has a most bizarre intro!
I can really imagine someone like the Hagen just tearing these SQs to bits!... but I do kind of like the Kodaly's '30s-movies approach, very nostalgic.
What're your fav Schubert SQs, pre-Quartettsatz in c minor?
Mr Snipper,
Throw that Kodaly away, and buy this--
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51RVNZ7KMGL._SS500_.jpg) (http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-String-Quartets-Franz/dp/B00002DEH3/)
$$$...however, if I were to go "Complete," there was an old set by the VPO Quartet, or... who was it?...help... the one where their old world Schubert playing was light years ahead of everyone else...???...otherwise, sure, it's either Melos, Kodaly, Leipzig, the above mystery Quartet, Auryn,...who else?
Still, what's your fav early Schubert SQ?
No.8 seems to have that perfect "cross-roads" synthesis, to me.
It's not expensive, it's $30 for a 6 cd set, what more do you want? :D
The Auryn Quartet cycle is very expensive, I wouldn't buy them if I were you. There are only three complete cycles, Kodaly, Auryn and Melos. If Melos is too expensive for you then why bother? It's actually the cheapest one!
I don't know why you would describe a recording that you have not heard by an ensemble that you can not remember as "light years ahead of everyone else"!? ??? Very puzzling post.
No wait, I'll take that back there is one more set-- the Vienna Konzethaus Quartet, I think it's oop though but can be had used. Melos is still the cheapest.
I'm not sure going completist is the thing to do with Schubert's SQs. I'd get the newer Melos Qt set of the last three quartets plus the single mvt.
Or the two ABQ cds.
I'm not a big fan of the early string quartets so I agree with you Herman, but Mr Snipper clearly wants a big box set. I was not even able to answer Snipper's question about favorite early quartet. I suppose in a year or two he'll be doing this all over again with piano trios! :P
Quote from: DavidW on July 20, 2009, 08:25:38 PM
Mr Snipper,
Throw that Kodaly away, and buy this--
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51RVNZ7KMGL._SS500_.jpg) (http://www.amazon.com/Schubert-String-Quartets-Franz/dp/B00002DEH3/)
Yes David! :)
Quote from: ChamberNut on July 21, 2009, 09:37:00 AM
Yes David! :)
Anyone know how that Melos sets compares to the Lindsays incomplete set?
Quote from: DavidW on July 21, 2009, 08:48:38 AMbut Mr Snipper clearly wants a big box set. I suppose in a year or two he'll be doing this all over again with piano trios! :P
Nononononono,no,... I do
not want a big box set! As a matter of fact I think I'm done with Schubert. The only reason I got that Naxos was because of the raves in Gramo/Penguin. I'd never heard No.1 or No.4, and I must say I liked them better than... well, I just didn't know Schubert's style ran through his whole corpus. As I said, No.8 seems to have all the elements... what more do I need to know about the Schubster? I think I just don't particularly like Schubert... he was not the composer I thought he was going to be... much grungier than I thought. Perhaps all this "Heaven" talk was over just the Quintet in C (which I have not yet heard... looking forward), because I have found nothing heavenly in the last SQs, or in the Naxos (except for the first mvmt. of No.1). I just thought the Naxos could have been a little more gruff and woodsy, but I'm not buying box sets just to check out some early SQs. No, generally, Schubert's been a disappointment for me (though, a revelation nonetheless). And no, I will probably not be going after the piano trios (though I remember a great part in the movie "The Hunger").
Quote from: DavidW on July 20, 2009, 09:59:49 PM
No wait, I'll take that back there is one more set-- the Vienna Konzethaus Quartet, I think it's oop though but can be had used. Melos is still the cheapest.
I think that's the one I mentioned (rec. in the '50s???). btw- I have nothing against the Melos set (though I heard the recording was a bit harsh in places).
No one has a favorite early Schubert SQ??
Yeah that bit in the Hunger is fantastic isn't it?
Have you heard the String Quintet? It is perhaps Schubert's greatest chamber work. :)
Oh and if you're not quite done with Schubert yet, check out Herman's recs.
I still have the Quintet ahead of me: last stop on the SchuberTrain. And yes, my expectations are high (I'll probably go for ABQ). EVERYONE says it's "da bomb!" So, until then...
Quote from: snyprrr on July 21, 2009, 12:34:48 PM
No one has a favorite early Schubert SQ??
Given your turn towards annihilation lately, I almost hate to mention D 87 in Eb... Pity there's nothing satanic in it though... :-\
Well, I don't care, I am quite fond of it anyway. It's the essence of pre-syphilitic Schubert... :)
8)
Quote from: DavidW on July 21, 2009, 12:40:21 PM
Have you heard the String Quintet? It is perhaps Schubert's greatest chamber work. :)
0:)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on July 21, 2009, 01:19:36 PM
Given your turn towards annihilation lately, I almost hate to mention D 87 in Eb... Pity there's nothing satanic in it though... :-\
Well, I don't care, I am quite fond of it anyway. It's the essence of pre-syphilitic Schubert... :)
8)
pre-syph...niiice!
Sounds like I might like it.
That leaves 2-3, and 5-6...aren't two of these just fragments?
And what about that lone D353 E major SQ? That one seems to fly under the radar.
I was shocked at how advanced he sounds out of the box.
...and aggressive...
Quote from: snyprrr on July 21, 2009, 01:05:20 PM
I still have the Quintet ahead of me: last stop on the SchuberTrain. And yes, my expectations are high (I'll probably go for ABQ). EVERYONE says it's "da bomb!"
Everybody's wrong, of course.
Hagen Quartett, and it's even in print!
Quote from: Valentino on July 23, 2009, 04:05:48 PM
Everybody's wrong, of course.
Hagen Quartett, and it's even in print!
You don't like Schubert's string quintet? ???
No D, ABQ vs Hagen.
No one has really mentioned D703 in c minor, the most famous Quartettsatz.
...any poetic musings?...
Also, I was considering that Borodin/Virgin?...
Superwoman and her Sidekicks have recorded D703 too, you know...
Quote from: DavidW on July 23, 2009, 04:17:47 PM
You don't like Schubert's string quintet? ???
Quite the contrary. Grew up on the Lindsays (their second movement is a must hear), and have studied other interpretations including ABQ, but I've ended up with that little ol' band from Salzburg as my favourite in this Schubert piece too.
I have been listening obsessively for the past week to this disc from the big Philips box. I had already been caught up in listening to various string quartets (mainly by Beethoven and Bartok), a genre that hadn't really clicked with me until recently. However, when I heard this one, I was completely transfixed--it is unabashedly, lushly melodic, with a repeated theme in the first movement that seemingly just keeps opening up further, like some kind of majestic flower. A combination of internet research and some quick Amazon deliveries of other highly touted performances led me to the realization that this particular performance is rather unique and controversial, as most other performers adopt faster tempi and often a more nervously tense, stop-and-go sort of interpretation. The Quartetto Italiano, as I experience it, don't simply play the work as a kind of narrative, but seem to absolutely luxuriate in the sheer beauty of every single note and nuance, giving it a luminous, almost floating feeling. My preference here almost surprises me, since with composers like Bartok, I tend to prefer darker, edgier approaches. This performance of the final string quartet by Schubert, however, seems to be working in a very different way for me--rather than as exciting or even conventionally beautiful, I experience it as nothing less than rapturous. (Seeing Snyprrr's response to another performance of this quartet in earlier posts, I wish I had been around to recommend this version, since it is so very different, IMHO, from what he was describing).
(http://cdn.7static.com/static/img/sleeveart/00/019/676/0001967622_500.jpg)
How does this sound, both as an interpretation and as a sound recording ? Nimbus sometimes bathes the players in unwanted echo, airplane hangar-style. This set is cheap in the extreme. Thomas Brandis was concertmaster of the Berliner Philharmoniker for 22 years. Good pedigree...
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51gs7w%2BocpL.jpg)
Just want to say that this quite recent set is superb!
[asin]B01B71CK76[/asin]
Just listening now to the Quartettsatz in C minor. Perhaps the most thrilling/touching Quartettsatz I have ever heard.
Diogenes Quartet...who are those guys?
Never heard anything by them but they have a homepage with some info in English
http://diogenes-quartett.de/biography/?lang=en
Franz's SQs TTT! Thread has been dormant for nearly 4 years, plus I'm listening to my small collection of Schubert's later SQs from the first two sets below - I've just read through this thread and the Melos Quartett seems to have gleamed the accolades for the 'best' complete set of these string works - however, the last two posts back in late 2016 brought up another newcomer, i.e. the Diogenes Quartet - there appeared to be little interest in discussion - however, I just finished perusing Jerry Dubins half dozen reviews in Fanfare (five attached for those interested) in which he absolutely raves about this group in these performances - Brilliant now offers a 7-CD box which I decided to order. Dave :)
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51cgPm1xwtL.jpg) (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81J9Ct7YbhL._SL1200_.jpg) (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51B1VEvGdQL.jpg)
My only complete set is this
[asin]B076JRDY6X[/asin]
I have a few recordings of the late quartets and the quintet, including the Belcea and a subset of the Emerson set. But generally I prefer individual recordings here, the Jerusalem Quartet among others.
I can very highly recommend these 2 disks for last quartet/quartettsatz/quintet. I first got into this group playing what turns out to be my favorite String Quartet version of Haydn's '7 Last Words'. They are from Iceland, with the exception of the 1st violin, who is none other than Jaap Schröder, this must have been one of his last projects before his death back on January 1. I don't know (and would love to find out) if there is a disk 3 in the can, which would probably have 'Death & the Maiden' and 'Rosamunde'. If so, that would be a hard 3 disk set to beat! :)
(https://i.imgur.com/3mNgifY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WH3rPB0.jpg)
8)
I have a lot of these. Short list:
Artemis Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: My favourite modern recordings (of the quartets; the quintet is also good, though). Schubert with edge, and the right amount of fantasy, without self-indulgence.
Auryn Quartet - complete: Not quite the opposite extreme from the Artemis but certainly much more genteel and Viennese and such.
Belcea Quartet - Nos. 14, 15: Good, slightly mannered, takes "molto moderato" in the first movement of No. 15 quite seriously. A bit histrionic overall.
Busch Quartet - Nos. 8, 14, 15: Interpretively close to definitive (though no repeats in the first movements). Sounds very historical. Would not recommend to a first-timer but always a pleasure to listen to.
Chiaroscuro Quartet - Nos. 9, 13, 14: Probably my favourite period instruments recordings. Passionate & highly coloured, generally.
Cuarteto Casals - Nos. 10, 15: Generally enjoyable, quasi-HIP modern instruments take; I recall having some issues with the ensemble last time I heard it, but probably nothing that would be noticeable on a casual listen.
Doric Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: On the other end of the quasi-HIP modern instruments side—slower tempi (though still faster than average, mostly) and surgical clean attacks instead of portamenti, expressive vibrato and swells. I've always enjoyed this a great deal.
Emerson Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: Can feel like a somewhat less polished precursor to the Artemis set, interpretively. Plenty of vibrato and that terrible DG engineering. I still like them nonetheless.
Fitzwilliam Quartet - Nos. 13, 14: Period instruments, relaxed tempi, a bit reminiscent of the old Vienna Konzerthaus Quartet recordings on Westminster. Definitely worth checking out.
Hagen Quartet - Nos. 10, 12, 13, 15: A bit variable in quality—one of the best and most disruptive versions of No. 15, though. "Disruptive" probably being the best overall description of their style.
Hungarian Quartet - No. 15 (1951): Can seem rushed at times and merely manic-depressive at other times. The latter is, in No. 15, a virtue.
Jasper Quartet - No. 14: I don't remember much about this one to be honest.
Juilliard Quartet - No. 14 (1960), No. 15 (1960): If you like your Schubert psychodramatic and modernist, and can tolerate Robert Mann's wayward cruelty to the system of equal temperament, these are for you.
Leipzig Quartet - complete: Like the Emersons, a bit "old fashioned" in style and with every note treated with great reverence (even in the various tiny fragments and incomplete works they unearthed). I like that sort of thing though.
Petersen Quartet - No. 14: See comments above on "Juilliard Quartet" (substitute Conrad Mück for Robert Mann)
Takács Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15 (Decca): These might be my first recommendations for a newcomer, actually: fairly "average" in most stylistic respects, self-effacing, but everything is very stylishly done and the ensemble is flawless.
Taneyev Quartet - complete: For some reason, never issued on CD but available as a cheap MP3 download from the river people. Dates from the 80s, when the quartet was past its prime, but if you like old-fashioned Soviet fiddling, extreme tempos presented as normal, and a world-class sense of style you will like it.
Terpsycordes Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: Period instruments, semi-modern style. I recall this being one of the best versions of No. 13.
Tetzlaff Quartet - No. 15: Another in the list of highly mannered performances that I love. The quartet has the best intonation of almost any ensemble I've heard, if that helps.
My favourite recording of any string quartet, not only Schubert. Just perfection.
(https://i.imgur.com/KpOBWJM.jpg)
Quote from: amw on May 13, 2020, 03:18:09 PM
I have a lot of these. Short list:
Artemis Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: My favourite modern recordings (of the quartets; the quintet is also good, though). Schubert with edge, and the right amount of fantasy, without self-indulgence.
Auryn Quartet - complete: Not quite the opposite extreme from the Artemis but certainly much more genteel and Viennese and such.
Belcea Quartet - Nos. 14, 15: Good, slightly mannered, takes "molto moderato" in the first movement of No. 15 quite seriously. A bit histrionic overall.
Busch Quartet - Nos. 8, 14, 15: Interpretively close to definitive (though no repeats in the first movements). Sounds very historical. Would not recommend to a first-timer but always a pleasure to listen to.
Chiaroscuro Quartet - Nos. 9, 13, 14: Probably my favourite period instruments recordings. Passionate & highly coloured, generally.
Cuarteto Casals - Nos. 10, 15: Generally enjoyable, quasi-HIP modern instruments take; I recall having some issues with the ensemble last time I heard it, but probably nothing that would be noticeable on a casual listen.
Doric Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: On the other end of the quasi-HIP modern instruments side—slower tempi (though still faster than average, mostly) and surgical clean attacks instead of portamenti, expressive vibrato and swells. I've always enjoyed this a great deal.
Emerson Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: Can feel like a somewhat less polished precursor to the Artemis set, interpretively. Plenty of vibrato and that terrible DG engineering. I still like them nonetheless.
Fitzwilliam Quartet - Nos. 13, 14: Period instruments, relaxed tempi, a bit reminiscent of the old Vienna Konzerthaus Quartet recordings on Westminster. Definitely worth checking out.
Hagen Quartet - Nos. 10, 12, 13, 15: A bit variable in quality—one of the best and most disruptive versions of No. 15, though. "Disruptive" probably being the best overall description of their style.
Hungarian Quartet - No. 15 (1951): Can seem rushed at times and merely manic-depressive at other times. The latter is, in No. 15, a virtue.
Jasper Quartet - No. 14: I don't remember much about this one to be honest.
Juilliard Quartet - No. 14 (1960), No. 15 (1960): If you like your Schubert psychodramatic and modernist, and can tolerate Robert Mann's wayward cruelty to the system of equal temperament, these are for you.
Leipzig Quartet - complete: Like the Emersons, a bit "old fashioned" in style and with every note treated with great reverence (even in the various tiny fragments and incomplete works they unearthed). I like that sort of thing though.
Petersen Quartet - No. 14: See comments above on "Juilliard Quartet" (substitute Conrad Mück for Robert Mann)
Takács Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15 (Decca): These might be my first recommendations for a newcomer, actually: fairly "average" in most stylistic respects, self-effacing, but everything is very stylishly done and the ensemble is flawless.
Taneyev Quartet - complete: For some reason, never issued on CD but available as a cheap MP3 download from the river people. Dates from the 80s, when the quartet was past its prime, but if you like old-fashioned Soviet fiddling, extreme tempos presented as normal, and a world-class sense of style you will like it.
Terpsycordes Quartet - Nos. 12, 13, 14, 15: Period instruments, semi-modern style. I recall this being one of the best versions of No. 13.
Tetzlaff Quartet - No. 15: Another in the list of highly mannered performances that I love. The quartet has the best intonation of almost any ensemble I've heard, if that helps.
Nice & interesting little survey, thank you. I hadn't heard of a Taneyev set, for example.
Quote from: MusicTurner on May 14, 2020, 01:55:48 AM
Nice & interesting little survey, thank you.
Agreed. Very interesting, thanks! :)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on May 13, 2020, 01:23:25 PM
Franz's SQs TTT! Thread has been dormant for nearly 4 years, plus I'm listening to my small collection of Schubert's later SQs from the first two sets below - I've just read through this thread and the Melos Quartett seems to have gleamed the accolades for the 'best' complete set of these string works - however, the last two posts back in late 2016 brought up another newcomer, i.e. the Diogenes Quartet - there appeared to be little interest in discussion - however, I just finished perusing Jerry Dubins half dozen reviews in Fanfare (five attached for those interested) in which he absolutely raves about this group in these performances - Brilliant now offers a 7-CD box which I decided to order. Dave :)
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51cgPm1xwtL.jpg) (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81J9Ct7YbhL._SL1200_.jpg) (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51B1VEvGdQL.jpg)
I have all those three and they are all very good in their own way. Diogenes takes the 1st prize for completeness, tough --- and if one is a true Schubertian, one needs them all. ;)
Two asides:
(1) this Dubbins guy is convinced that Schubert went insane at a very young age, possibly during childhood, and misses no opportunity to mention it, finding proof for his assertion in the music itself. I think he should go see a psychologist himself. ;D
(2) the guy on the Diogenes set cover is not Schubert. See a thorough analysis here: http://figures-of-speech.com/2019/05/portrait.htm (http://figures-of-speech.com/2019/05/portrait.htm)
There are apparently five? "modern" complete recordings, Leipzig/MDG (hypercomplete with fragments included), Auryn/cpo, Kodaly/Naxos, Verdi/Haenssler, Diogenes/Brilliant. (There is one from the mid/late 70s with the Melos/DG and one from the 50s or early 60s with a Viennese quartet.) I have not heard anything of the last two. I have the Auryn complete and two discs with the Leipzig. Both are IMO very good. Of these the Leipzig seem to me the more "traditional", the Auryn does not quite offer the cutting edge "modernity" of Hagen (and supposedly Artemis and others, I have not heard their Schubert) but it's about in the middle. The MDG used to be quite expensive, but not anymore, so one is spoiled for choice. I also got the downloads (one of the very few downloads I bought) of the Taneyev and this is very interesting and maybe makes more of the early pieces than could be expected. One should note that most of the early pieces are really early, i.e. Schubert was about 15 when he wrote them. Some are interesting (e.g. the very first one that cannot decide between g minor and Bb major), but I hardly listen to them and don't think one needs more than one complete recording.
It's not easy finding discography information on Festetics Quartet, are the only CDs of their Schubert String Quartet 4, 13 and a CD of the String Quintet? Thanks.
Quote from: hvbias on July 05, 2020, 07:26:38 AM
It's not easy finding discography information on Festetics Quartet, are the only CDs of their Schubert String Quartet 4, 13 and a CD of the String Quintet? Thanks.
Unfortunately, yes...
Q
Quote from: Que on July 05, 2020, 07:33:39 AM
Unfortunately, yes...
Q
Damn, that stinks. Thanks Que. I brought Haydn's String Quartets up here after seeing Hurwitz's contagious enthusiasm for the Op. 20 quartets (Festetics) which caused me to pull out all my other Festetics CDs. I was hoping I was just deficient in my recordings of their Schubert :( I played the String Quartet after seeing your recommendation for it in the other thread, a cracker for sure!
Curiously the Festetics Schubert quartet disc has "Tome 4" on the cover, so back then they apparently planned to do all? of them.
Quote from: Jo498 on July 05, 2020, 07:56:44 AM
Curiously the Festetics Schubert quartet disc has "Tome 4" on the cover, so back then they apparently planned to do all? of them.
This is precisely what tipped me off to wondering if there was more. And if it was a case of Arcana's website deleting titles that are no longer in print.
missing from AMW's survey are a few major recrordings.
Alban Berg Q recorded 13 thru 15 and the Quintet or EMI in the eighties. I would call these very important recordings. Very intense, not Viennese, which is kind of ironic since the ABQ is from Vienna. (Just goes to show ya.)
The Melos Quartet recorded Schubert twice.
There are recordings by the Amadeus Quartet that may be considered ur-Viennese (kind of ironic, since the Amadeus was London based).
Re: AMW's list I would say, from my pov there is no stylistic resemblance between the Juilliard and the Petersen, other than they are both string quartets.
The Melos made one complete recording in the 70s, followed by the quintet with Rostropovich, all on DG. Then they recorded 804/810 for Novalis in the 80s, then (I think in the 1990s) the last 3 + Quartettsatz + Quintet for harmonia mundi. The ABQ recorded the a minor and an early one in the 70s for Teldec/Telefunken, then the EMI recordings you mentioned, but I think there is at least one they recorded twice for EMI (maybe live/video or so). The Death and Maiden was somewhat of a signature piece for the Amadeus and I think the movie with Kingsley and Weaver used one of their recordings.
Quote from: Herman on July 07, 2020, 03:33:42 AM
missing from AMW's survey are a few major recrordings.
To be fair I did only include recordings that I own personally.
And for me the comparison between the Juilliard (Epic/Testament) and Petersen is mostly based on ensemble sound and general edginess and psychological readings. I do consider that valid for most other repertoire as well (eg Beethoven, Schoenberg) but it is always the Juilliards of the 1950s and 1960s that I'm comparing to; after Claus Adam and Raphael Hillyer's departures the ensemble sound changed quite significantly.
Quote from: Jo498 on July 05, 2020, 07:56:44 AM
Curiously the Festetics Schubert quartet disc has "Tome 4" on the cover, so back then they apparently planned to do all? of them.
Quote from: hvbias on July 05, 2020, 08:08:38 AM
This is precisely what tipped me off to wondering if there was more. And if it was a case of Arcana's website deleting titles that are no longer in print.
Yep. I also assume that a whole series was planned that never materialised... At least, I have never found any trace of it.
Considering the quality of the performances, very frustrating indeed.
Q
We probably had this before but what is there on historical instruments Schubert quartets?
often out of print, but in principle existent:
Coll. Aureum (LP only) D 94, 810, 804 + 703
Festetics D 804 + 46
Mosaiques D 804 +87, 810 + 173
Terpsycordes D 887 + Quartettsatz, 804 + 810
Chiaroscuro: D 804 (+Mozart), D 810 +173
Quote from: Jo498 on July 07, 2020, 11:49:26 AM
We probably had this before but what is there on historical instruments Schubert quartets?
often out of print, but in principle existent:
Coll. Aureum (LP only) D 94, 810, 804 + 703
Festetics D 804 + 46
Mosaiques D 804 +87, 810 + 173
Terpsycordes D 887 + Quartettsatz, 804 + 810
Chiaroscuro: D 804 (+Mozart), D 810 +173
L'Archibudelli did D 87, but apparently no other quartets.
tbh I don't care too much for any of the early quartets. But that D 87 seems the most popular and frequently recorded of them, is a total puzzle for me...
Quote from: Jo498 on July 07, 2020, 11:49:26 AM
We probably had this before but what is there on historical instruments Schubert quartets?
often out of print, but in principle existent:
Coll. Aureum (LP only) D 94, 810, 804 + 703
Festetics D 804 + 46
Mosaiques D 804 +87, 810 + 173
Terpsycordes D 887 + Quartettsatz, 804 + 810
Chiaroscuro: D 804 (+Mozart), D 810 +173
Skalholt Quartet (a Jaap Schröder pick-up band) did D703, D887 & D956. This was well after Schröder's good period so intonation is somewhat painful to listen to but I think Que likes them.
Quote from: amw on July 07, 2020, 04:59:44 PM
Skalholt Quartet (a Jaap Schröder pick-up band) did D703, D887 & D956. This was well after Schröder's good period so intonation is somewhat painful to listen to but I think Que likes them.
Negative...
I did try some on Spotify because
Gurn mentioned these recordings, but it is indeed painful to listen to! :o
Q
Quote from: Que on July 07, 2020, 09:41:50 PM
Negative...
I did try some on Spotify because Gurn mentioned these recordings, but it is indeed painful to listen to! :o
Q
I was confusing you with Gurn, I guess—apologies.
At least
someone likes them.
Quote from: Jo498 on May 14, 2020, 03:32:27 AMThere are apparently five? "modern" complete recordings, Leipzig/MDG (hypercomplete with fragments included), Auryn/cpo, Kodaly/Naxos, Verdi/Haenssler, Diogenes/Brilliant. (There is one from the mid/late 70s with the Melos/DG and one from the 50s or early 60s with a Viennese quartet.)
Never having bought a complete Schubert String Quartet set, I dug around a little. Ten sets have been recorded based on what I can find, though perhaps - and hopefully - there are more:
Vienna Konzerthaus (Westminster)
Endres (Vox)
Tanayev (Melodiya)
Melos (DG)
Vienna (Camerata)
Auryn (CPO)
Leipzig (MDG)
Kodaly (Naxos)
Verdi (Haenssler)
Diogenes (Brilliant)
They vary a bit in number of quartets recorded. The Tanayev is available as a $5 download at Qobuz. I did stream the Diogenes and it was quite good, but I should probably buy one or two or three, starting with the Auryn.
I wasn't aware of Endres and Vienna. Wiener Konzerthaus is very historical, Taneyev not quite as old but download only. (I think the latter is certainly worth $5.) The number varies probably because there are a bunch of fragments. I think the Leipzig is the most complete. I have not heard any of the Kodaly, Diogenes and Verdi but I think Auryn and Leipzig are both excellent. The advantage of the Leipzig (and the Kodaly) is that one can buy single discs.
Not a complete set but I really like the Doric Quartet Nos.13 & 14.
There are of course plenty of high level 13-15.
I think for most listeners, one recording will be sufficient for the early works (they are really extremely early, Schubert was 13-18 or so, earlier than almost all of the symphonies or piano sonatas), so the Taneyev download is a good option. Or, if one wants physical discs, Auryn for a very good cycle that is not too expensive.
Quote from: Jo498 on May 14, 2020, 03:32:27 AM
One should note that most of the early pieces are really early, i.e. Schubert was about 15 when he wrote them. Some are interesting (e.g. the very first one that cannot decide between g minor and Bb major), but I hardly listen to them and don't think one needs more than one complete recording.
I thought these comments on the earlier quartets from Burton Rothleder in Fanfare were interesting:
"Among the very earliest quartets, the most attractive movements are the Andante second
movement of D 32—a plaintive song in A-Minor of exquisite beauty, the final movement of D 36—
a bouncy and tuneful Allegro, and the final movement of D 46—a rapid Allegro dance, all from the
pen of a 15 to 16 year old. Other movements in these early quartets also make rewarding
listening.
Four later quartets, before the final four quartets, are outstanding in their invention and musical
line: the D-Major (D 74), the E♭-Major (D 87), the B♭-Major (D 112), and the G-Minor (D 173). I
reserve a special place for the B♭-Major, which is an astounding achievement, even for what we
have come to expect from 18-year-old Franz Schubert."
Admittedly, I'd have to re-listen to comment on most of the early quartets. I think the g minor was my fav among the early ones. As I said above, I don't really get that the Eflat D 87 is so popular and often used as a filler. I find it rather boring (and it is also written in a style that betrays the limited abilities of some of the players it was written for, i.e. not very "quartet-like"). But one should certainly try all of them, just not expect too much.
the C minor Quartettsatz is more frequently used as filler.
I used to know people who said they liked Schubert's quartet juvenalia, but I never did.
His early piano pieces seem more assured.
Is there any chronological list of recordings of Schubert's String Quartets? Do you know any early recordings from musicians born in the 19th century?
The members of the Busch Quartet were mostly born in the 1890s and recorded the two last and one or two early quartets but they were recorded "only" in the late 1930s. There are probably acoustical recordings at least of some Schubert movements? before 1920 but I don't know any.
Thank's a lot, that's super nice (and helpful)!
It's historically in a way super close, since most of the early quartets were only published in the decade they were born.
FWIW the early quartet they recorded is D 112 Bflat major. Adolf Busch also recorded the violin fantasy with Serkin, not sure how well known this one was in the 1930s but probably not as obscure as the early quartets.
Any love for the Lindsay's Schubert recordings?