OnClassical | OC17051a | 2017


Brahms, J.: String Quintets; F major, Op. 88; G major, Op. 111
Quartetto Sandro Materassi, Ensemble

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Total duration: 47:54
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The String Quintet in F major, Op. 88, and the String Quintet in G major, Op. 111, both composed by Johannes Brahms, stand as exemplary works within the chamber music repertoire, showcasing Brahms' mastery of form and lyricism.
The String Quintet in F major, Op. 88, composed in 1882, is a vibrant and emotionally rich composition. Brahms chose to augment the traditional string quartet with an additional viola, resulting in a quintet that possesses a warm and full-bodied sound. The opening Allegro non troppo is marked by its lyrical themes and a balanced interplay of voices. The second movement, Grave ed appassionato, introduces a sense of introspection and emotional depth, while the third movement, Allegretto grazioso, provides a contrast with its lighter, dance-like character. The final movement, Allegro energico, brings the quintet to a powerful and triumphant conclusion.
The String Quintet in G major, Op. 111, composed in 1890, is Brahms' final chamber music work. It also features the quintet formation with two violas. This quintet is characterized by its richness of melodic material and harmonic exploration. The opening movement, Allegro non troppo, is expansive and exuberant, showcasing Brahms' thematic development. The second movement, Adagio, is a profound and expressive display of Brahms' lyrical gifts, while the third movement, Un poco allegretto, introduces a charming and graceful scherzo-like character. The final movement, Vivace ma non troppo presto, concludes the quintet with a sense of joy and vitality.
Both of these string quintets by Brahms reflect his mature style, combining structural integrity with emotional depth. The choice of the quintet ensemble allows for a rich tapestry of sound and intricate interactions among the instruments. These quintets stand as testament to Brahms' ability to create chamber music of enduring beauty and complexity, offering listeners a glimpse into the depth of his artistic vision.
Johannes Brahms' String Quintet No. 1 in F major, op. 88, was composed in 1882. Brahms described the quintet to his friend Clara Schumann as "one of [his] finest works" and told Simrock, "You have never before had such a beautiful work from me." String Quintet No. 2 in G major, Opus 111 was published in 1890. It is known as the Prater Quintet. Brahms intended it to be his last piece of music.
Quartetto Sandro Materassi - for this occasion with notable violist Danilo Rossi - is one of the main string ensemble in Italy.
A natural recording by Michele Gaggia remastered at 24-bits by Alessandro Simonetto.

String Quintets; F major, Op. 88; G major, Op. 111
Quartetto Sandro Materassi, Ensemble

OnClassical
Prod. No.: 12 / 2017
Cat. No: OC17051a
UPC: 634065037291
No. Album(s): 1

Recorded @ Cascina Boffalora, Piacenza, 1999

Sound engineer: Michele Gaggia
Photo/paint on cover: pink_dispatcher (flickr.com), (CC BY-SA)
Artwork: OnClassical

Equipment used: N/A
Instrument(s) used: N/A

An OnClassical prod., © 1999

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