Description

Hagen Quartett: Schubert "Death and the Maiden" & Ravel String Quartet – First DVD Release

UPC: 880242723383

Product Features

Title: Schubert String Quartet in D minor "Death and the Maiden" & Ravel String Quartet in F major
Quartet: Hagen Quartett
- Violin I: Lukas Hagen
- Violin II (Schubert): Annette Bik
- Violin II (Ravel): Rainer Schmidt
- Viola: Veronika Hagen
- Cello: Clemens Hagen
Recorded Performances:
- Schubert’s String Quartet in D minor "Death and the Maiden": Baroque Library in Vorau, Austria (26 June – 2 July 1987)
- Ravel’s String Quartet in F major: Mozarteum, Salzburg (26 January 2000)
Directed for Video by:Format: DVD, NTSC, All Regions
- Schubert: Klaus Lindemann
- Ravel: Horant H. Hohlfeld
Running Time: Not specified
Sound: Dolby Digital Stereo
Label: Medici Arts / Unitel Classica
Release Year: Not specified

Overview

This Medici Arts / Unitel Classica DVD captures the Hagen Quartett, one of the most celebrated string quartets of our time, in two of the greatest masterpieces in the string quartet repertoire. Renowned for their finely nuanced playing and remarkable ensemble unity, the Hagen Quartett delivers mesmerizing performances of Franz Schubert's "Death and the Maiden" and Maurice Ravel’s String Quartet in F major.

Recorded in two magnificent venues, Schubert’s String Quartet in D minor was filmed in the Baroque Library in Vorau, a stunning backdrop that enhances the dark and dramatic mood of Schubert’s iconic quartet. In contrast, Ravel’s String Quartet was recorded live in the Mozarteum in Salzburg, the quartet’s hometown, where the players bring out the vibrant colors and textures of Ravel’s only work in the string quartet genre.

Both performances exemplify the Hagen Quartett’s exceptional artistry and deep understanding of these complex works, making this DVD a valuable addition for lovers of chamber music.

Repertoire

Franz Schubert:
- String Quartet in D minor, D. 810 "Death and the Maiden"
- Recorded: Baroque Library, Vorau, Austria (26 June – 2 July 1987)
- Directed by: Klaus Lindemann
Maurice Ravel:
- String Quartet in F major
- Recorded: Mozarteum, Salzburg (26 January 2000)
- Directed by: Horant H. Hohlfeld

Interesting Facts

Schubert’s "Death and the Maiden" is one of the most famous and frequently performed string quartets, known for its intensity and exploration of mortality, with the second movement being based on Schubert’s earlier song of the same name.
Ravel’s String Quartet in F major, written in 1903, is admired for its luminous harmonies and rhythmic complexity, reflecting both classical tradition and modern innovations in form and texture.
The Hagen Quartett, founded in 1981, is known for its consistent excellence in performance and unique interpretations, often collaborating with other leading musicians.