Description

Beethoven: String Quartets Op. 18/3, Op. 18/5 & Op. 135 - Artemis Quartett / Virgin Classics Audio CD 2011

UPC 5099907083426

Product Features

Label: Virgin Classics
Format: CD, Stereo
Country: Europe
Released: 2011
Genre: Classical

Overview

This exceptional album by the Artemis Quartett presents three of Beethoven's most celebrated string quartets: Op. 18/3, Op. 18/5, and Op. 135. These works showcase Beethoven’s transition from the Classical to the Romantic era, blending innovation with structural elegance.

The String Quartet No. 3 in D major, Op. 18, No. 3, composed between 1798 and 1800, was Beethoven’s first quartet despite its position as No. 3 in the opus. Dedicated to Joseph Franz von Lobkowitz, it remains a prime example of the composer’s early mastery. The String Quartet No. 5 in A major, Op. 18/5, composed around the same time, represents a shift towards greater complexity and expressive depth. Lastly, Op. 135, Beethoven’s final string quartet, reflects his profound emotional and philosophical concerns, particularly in its famous final movement with the words "Muss Es Sein? Es Muss Sein!" ("Must it be? It must be!").

This recording, with stellar performances by the Artemis Quartett, captures the emotional range and technical brilliance of these works.

Track Listing

String Quartet No. 5 in A Major, Op. 18, No. 5

I. Allegro – 10:23
II. Menuetto & Trio – 4:47
III. Andante Cantabile – 9:36
IV. Allegro – 6:14

String Quartet No. 3 in D Major, Op. 18, No. 3

I. Allegro – 7:22
II. Andante Con Moto – 7:48
III. Allegro & Minore – 2:47
IV. Presto – 6:10

String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135

I. Allegretto – 6:25
II. Vivace – 3:19
III. Assai Lento, Cantate E Tranquillo – 6:19
IV. Der Schwer Gefasste Entschluss: "Muss Es Sein? Es Muss Sein!" Grave, Ma Non Troppo Tratto – Allegro – 7:07