Beethoven: Complete String Quartets [Box set] [Import]

Track Listings
1. 1-4 String Quartet No.1 In F Major, Op. 18 No.1    
2. 5-8 String Quartet No.2 In G Major, Op.18 No.2    
3. 9-12 String Quartet No.3 In D Major, Op.18 No.3    
4. 1-4 String Quartet No.4 In D Minor, Op. 18 No.3    
5. 5-8 String Quartet No.5 In A Major, Op.18 No.5    
6. 9-12 String Quartet No.6 In B-Flat Major, Op.18 No.6    
7. 1-4 String Quartet No.7 In F Major, Op.59 No.1    
8. 1-4 String Quartet No.8 In E Minor, Op.59 No.2    
9. 5-8 String Quartet No.9 In C Major, Op.59 No.3    
10. 1-4 String Quartet No.10 In E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp"    
11. 5-8 String Quartet No.11 In F Minor Op.95    
12. 1-4 String Quartet No.12 In E-Flat Major, Op.127    
13. 5-11 String Quartet No.13 In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131    
14. 1-7 String Quartet No.14 In B-Flat Major, Op. 130    
15. 1-5 String Quartet No.15 In A Minor, Op.132    
16. 6-9 String Quartet No.16 In F Major, Op. 135    

Beethoven: Complete String Quartets, Music, Juilliard String Quartet, Chamber, Classical, Quartet for Four String Instruments
Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • A wonderful Beethoven cycle
  • A LONG TIME COMING AT THIS PRICE
  • What more can be said?
  • With the Best of the Best
  • What sound problems????
 Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
Ludwig van Beethoven , Alban Berg Quartet , and Gerhard Schulz, Hatto Beyerle, Thomas Kakuska, Valentin Erben Günther Pichler
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000026D4J
Release Date: 1999-11-16

Tracks:

  1. Op. 18 No. 1 In F Major: I: Allegro Con Brio - Alban Berg Quartett
  2. Op. 18 No. 1 In F Major: II: Adagio Affettuoso Ed Appassionato - Alban Berg Quartett
  3. Op. 18 No. 1 In F Major: III: Scherzo (Allegro Molto) & Trio - Alban Berg Quartett
  4. Op. 18 No. 1 In F Major: IV: Allegro - Alban Berg Quartett
  5. Op. 59 No. 1 In F Major 'Rasumovsky': I: Allegro - Alban Berg Quartett
  6. Op. 59 No. 1 In F Major 'Rasumovsky': II: Allegretto Vivace E Sempre Scherzando - Alban Berg Quartett
  7. Op. 59 No. 1 In F Major 'Rasumovsky': III: Adagio molto e mesto : IV: Allegro (Th russe) - Alban Berg Quartett

Tracks:

  1. Op. 18 No.2 In G Major: I: Allegro - Alban Berg Quartett
  2. Op. 18 No.2 In G Major: II: Adagio cantabile - Alban Berg Quartett
  3. Op. 18 No.2 In G Major: III: Scherzo (Allegro) & Trio - Alban Berg Quartett
  4. Op. 18 No.2 In G Major: IV: Allegro molto, quasi presto - Alban Berg Quartett
  5. Op. 18 No. 6 In B Flat Major: I: Allegro con brio - Alban Berg Quartett
  6. Op. 18 No. 6 In B Flat Major: II: Adagio, ma non troppo - Alban Berg Quartett
  7. Op. 18 No. 6 In B Flat Major: III: Scherzo (Allegro) & Trio - Alban Berg Quartett
  8. Op. 18 No. 6 In B Flat Major: IV: Adagio (La Malinconia) - Allegretto quasi Allegro - Alban Berg Quartett
  9. Op. 135 In F Major: I: Allegretto - Alban Berg Quartett
  10. Op. 135 In F Major: II: Vivace - Alban Berg Quartett
  11. Op. 135 In F Major: III: Lento assai, cantante e tranquillo - Alban Berg Quartett
  12. Op. 135 In F Major: IV: Grave, ma non troppo tratto - Allegro - Alban Berg Quartett

Tracks:

  1. Op. 18 No. 3 In D Major: I. Allegro
  2. Op. 18 No. 3 In D Major: II. Andante con moto
  3. III. Allegro
  4. Op. 18 No. 3 In D Major: IV. Presto
  5. Op. 18 No. 5 in A Major: I. Allegro
  6. Op. 18 No. 5 in A Major: II. Menuetto & Trio
  7. Op. 18 No. 5 in A Major: III. Andante cantabile
  8. Op. 18 No. 5 in A Major: IV. Allegro
  9. Op. 95 In F Minor: I. Allegro con brio
  10. Op. 95 In F Minor: II. Allegretto ma non troppo
  11. Op. 95 In F Minor: III: Allegro assai vivace, ma serioso

Tracks:

  1. Op. 18 No. 4 In C Minor: I. Allegro ma non tanto
  2. Op. 18 No. 4 In C Minor: II. Scherzo (Andante scherzoso quasi Allegretto)
  3. Op. 18 No. 4 In C Minor: III. Menuetto (Allegretto) & Trio
  4. Op. 18 No. 4 In C Minor: IV. Allegro
  5. Op. 130 in B flat Major: I. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro
  6. Op. 130 in B flat Major: II. Presto
  7. Op. 130 in B flat Major: III. Andante con moto, ma non troppo
  8. Op. 130 in B flat Major: IV. Alla danza tedesca (Allegro assai)
  9. Op. 130 in B flat Major: V Cavatina (Adagio molto espressivo)
  10. Grosse Fuge In B Flat Major, Op. 133
  11. Op. 130 in B flat Major: VI. Finale (Allegro)

Tracks:

  1. Op. 59 No. 2 In E Minor 'Rasumovsky': I: Allegro
  2. Op. 59 No. 2 In E Minor 'Rasumovsky': II: Molto Allegro
  3. Op. 59 No. 2 In E Minor 'Rasumovsky': III: Allegretto
  4. Op. 59 No. 2 In E Minor 'Rasumovsky': IV: Finale (Presto)
  5. Op. 127 In E Flat Major: I: Maaestoso - Allegro
  6. Op. 127 In E Flat Major: II: Adagio ma non troppo, molto cantabile
  7. Op. 127 In E Flat Major: III: Scherzando vivace
  8. Op. 127 In E Flat Major: IV: Finale

Tracks:

  1. Op. 59 No. 3 In C Major 'Rasumovsky': I: Introduzione (Andante con moto) - Allegro vivace
  2. Op. 59 No. 3 In C Major 'Rasumovsky': II: Andante con moto quasi allegretto
  3. Op. 59 No. 3 In C Major 'Rasumovsky': III: Menuetto (Grazioso) & Trio
  4. Op. 131 In C Sharp Minor: I: Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivo
  5. Op. 131 In C Sharp Minor: II: Allegro molto vivace
  6. Op. 131 In C Sharp Minor: III: Allegro moderato
  7. Op. 131 In C Sharp Minor: IV: Andante ma non troppo e molto cantabile
  8. Op. 131 In C Sharp Minor: V: Presto
  9. Op. 131 In C Sharp Minor: VI: Adagio quasi un poco andante
  10. Op. 131 In C Sharp Minor: VI: Adagio quasi un poco andante

Tracks:

  1. Op. 74 In E Flat Major 'Harp': I Poco adagio - Allegro - Beethoven
  2. Op. 74 In E Flat Major 'Harp': II. Adagio ma non troppo - Beethoven
  3. Op. 74 In E Flat Major 'Harp': III. Presto - Beethoven
  4. Op. 74 In E Flat Major 'Harp': IV: Allegretto con Variazioni - Beethoven
  5. Op.132 In A Minor: I: Allegro sostenuto - Allegro - Beethoven
  6. Op.132 In A Minor: II: Allegro ma non tanto - Beethoven
  7. Op.132 In A Minor: III: Molto adagio - Beethoven
  8. Op.132 In A Minor: IV: Alla marcia, assai vivace - Beethoven

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A wonderful Beethoven cycle.......2007-06-18

This is a fine recording, remastered for the reissue. Intelligent, driving, finely played. Excellent musicianship. Buy it. You won't be sorry you did.

5 out of 5 stars A LONG TIME COMING AT THIS PRICE .......2007-06-02

On LP I own any number of complete Beethoven String Quartets by the great masters of that genre. I bought them all as a teenager and in college. When I started buying CDs a complete Beethoven set for over $100 by a great quartet became out of my price range at the time. To find the Berg Quartet, (a favorite group of mine), surveying these great works at this price from Amazon is one of the best bargains going.

I went immediately to Op. 135 and found it marvelous in concept, execution and recording. I've now listened to almost all the quartets, and the consistency is wonderful. Because I'm in the business I'm using only high end professional equipment for playback and the sound is truly "You Are There". The recordings capture the upper overtones of all the instruments without the least harhsness, no mean feat. The blend of the group and the hall is articulated in a way that happens on only a very few recordings. Ocassionally one can hear a minor difference in what might be placement of microphones, even from movement to movement. This could, in fact, be the result of a temperature or humidity change in the recording venue. You have to pay very close attention to notice this and it does nothing to diminish these sonic wonders) Worth thrice the price.

5 out of 5 stars What more can be said?.......2007-02-03

There are many wonderful performances of these remarkable pieces. Which is the finest? Only God, in his wisdom, will ever be able to answer such a question, but I'm sure with his celestial headphones on he'll be listening to the Alban Berg Quartet. For me this quartet is able to "read" each individual quartet with such clarity, from the light hearted humor of the Op.18 to the intense and darkly passionate Op.95 through to the strangely happy yet unearthly Op.135, with many other wonderful moments, that I can hardly imagine any better. You won't go wrong buying this.

5 out of 5 stars With the Best of the Best.......2006-12-14

I know it's saying a great deal with the excellent full sets of these quartets to choose from, but these overall are my favorites. The playing is excellent, balanced and perfectly toned. There are unquestionably the deep emotional commitment of the Vegh Quartet, the intelligence of the Juilliard, the parlor intimacy of the Talisch and the muscular intensity of the Italiano. And the serious collector needs to listen to these sets, or selections of, for a rounded understanding of these works. But for a consistency of quality and feeling throughout a traversal of all the quartets I believe the Berg set wins an arguably close contest--at least for me.

5 out of 5 stars What sound problems????.......2006-11-14

I am only writing this review in dispute of RB Townsend remarks below.
I have been listening to this mostly Live set for a few years now on high end Audiophile equipment and notice NO problems with sound at all.
It is clear, clean, crisp, transparent and rich with no "glare" at all.
if it is "well lit", this would suit Beethoven's strings perfectly.
An absolutely stunning performance with a Superb sound stage and sound.
All the other reviewers and the buyers who agree with their assessments (a hundred of them) can't be wrong.
With all due respect, Perhaps Mr. Townsend is listening to this on an Aiwa bookshelf System. Perhaps.
Beethoven: Complete String Quartets
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		Beethoven: Complete String Quartets
    Juilliard String Quartet
    Manufacturer: Sbme Import
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    5. Complete String Quartets

    ASIN: B00006OA6A
    Release Date: 2002-11-11

    Tracks:

    1. 1-4 String Quartet No.1 In F Major, Op. 18 No.1
    2. 5-8 String Quartet No.2 In G Major, Op.18 No.2
    3. 9-12 String Quartet No.3 In D Major, Op.18 No.3
    4. 1-4 String Quartet No.4 In D Minor, Op. 18 No.3
    5. 5-8 String Quartet No.5 In A Major, Op.18 No.5
    6. 9-12 String Quartet No.6 In B-Flat Major, Op.18 No.6
    7. 1-4 String Quartet No.7 In F Major, Op.59 No.1
    8. 1-4 String Quartet No.8 In E Minor, Op.59 No.2
    9. 5-8 String Quartet No.9 In C Major, Op.59 No.3
    10. 1-4 String Quartet No.10 In E-Flat Major, Op. 74 "Harp"
    11. 5-8 String Quartet No.11 In F Minor Op.95
    12. 1-4 String Quartet No.12 In E-Flat Major, Op.127
    13. 5-11 String Quartet No.13 In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 131
    14. 1-7 String Quartet No.14 In B-Flat Major, Op. 130
    15. 1-5 String Quartet No.15 In A Minor, Op.132
    16. 6-9 String Quartet No.16 In F Major, Op. 135
    Beethoven: The Complete String Quartets
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      		Beethoven: The Complete String Quartets

      Manufacturer: Resonance
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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      ASIN: B00013YN5O
      Release Date: 2006-08-22

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      1. I Moderato
      2. II Tempo Di Valse
      3. III Scherzo (Vivace)
      4. IV Larghetto
      5. V Finale (Allegro Vivace)
      6. I Moderato, Quasi Marcia
      7. II Minuetto And Trio (Presto)
      8. III Andante Con Moto
      9. IV Finale (Allegro Molto)
      Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 14: Misc. Chamber Works
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • The "Unknown" Beethoven...
      • Simply Delightful!
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      		 Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 14: Misc. Chamber Works

      Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      ASIN: B000001GZH
      Release Date: 1997-12-09

      Tracks:

      1. No. 1 In E Flat Major: 1. Adagio assai - attacca - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      2. No. 1 In E Flat Major: 2. Allegro con spirito - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      3. No. 1 In E Flat Major: 3. Tema. Cantabile - Variazioni I-VI - Tema. Allegretto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      4. No. 2 In D Major: 1. Allegro moderato - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      5. No. 2 In D Major: 2. Andante con moto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      6. No. 2 In D Major: 3. Rondo. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      7. No. 3 In C Major: 1. Allegro vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      8. No. 3 In C Major: 2. Adagio con expressione - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      9. No. 3 In C Major: 3. Rondo. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. Trio For Piano, Flute, And Bassoon In G Major: 1. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      2. Trio For Piano, Flute, And Bassoon In G Major: 2. Adagio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      3. Trio For Piano, Flute, And Bassoon In G Major: 3. Tema andante con Variazioni - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      4. Sonata For Piano And Horn In F Major: 1. Allegro moderato - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      5. Sonata For Piano And Horn In F Major: 2. Poco Adagio, quasi Andante - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      6. Sonata For Piano And Horn In F Major: 3. Rondo. Allegro moderato - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      7. Sextet For 2 Horns, 2 Violins, Viola And Cello In E Flat Major: 1. Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      8. Sextet For 2 Horns, 2 Violins, Viola And Cello In E Flat Major: 2. Adagio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      9. Sextet For 2 Horns, 2 Violins, Viola And Cello In E Flat Major: 3. Rondo. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. Quintet For Piano, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn And Bassoon In E Flat Major: 1. Grave - Allegro, ma non troppo
      2. Quintet For Piano, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn And Bassoon In E Flat Major: 2. Andante cantabile
      3. Quintet For Piano, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn And Bassoon In E Flat Major: 3. Rondo. Allegro, ma non troppo
      4. Serenade For Flute, Violin And Viola In D Major, Op. 25: 1. Entrada. Allegro
      5. Serenade For Flute, Violin And Viola In D Major, Op. 25: 2. Tempo ordinario d'un Minuetto
      6. Serenade For Flute, Violin And Viola In D Major, Op. 25: 3. Allegro molto
      7. Serenade For Flute, Violin And Viola In D Major, Op. 25: 4. Andante con Variazioni
      8. Serenade For Flute, Violin And Viola In D Major, Op. 25: 5. Allegro scherzando e vivace
      9. Serenade For Flute, Violin And Viola In D Major, Op. 25: 6. Adagio - Allegro vivace e disinvolto
      10. Sonatina In C Minor: Adagio
      11. Adagio In E Flat Major: Adagio (ma non troppo)
      12. Sonatine In C Major: Allegro
      13. Variations In D Major

      Tracks:

      1. Trio For Piano Clarinet And Cello In B Flat Major: 1. Allegro con brio
      2. Trio For Piano Clarinet And Cello In B Flat Major: 2. Adagio
      3. Trio For Piano Clarinet And Cello In B Flat Major: 3.Tema. 'Pria ch'io l'impegno'. Allegretto - Allegro
      4. Septet For Violin, Viola, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon, Cello And Double Bass In E Flat Major: 1. Adagio - Allegro con brio
      5. Septet For Violin, Viola, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon, Cello And Double Bass In E Flat Major:: 2. Adagio cantabile
      6. Septet For Violin, Viola, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon, Cello And Double Bass In E Flat Major:: 3. Tempo di Menuetto
      7. Septet For Violin, Viola, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon, Cello And Double Bass In E Flat Major: 4. Tema. Andante con Variazioni
      8. Septet For Violin, Viola, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon, Cello And Double Bass In E Flat Major: 5. Scherzo. Allegro molto e vivace
      9. Septet For Violin, Viola, Clarinet, Horn, Bassoon, Cello And Double Bass In E Flat Major: 6. Andante con moto alla Marcia - Presto
      10. Fugue For String Quintet In D Major: Allegretto

      Tracks:

      1. Quintet For 2 Violins, 2 Violas And Cello In C Major: I. Allegro
      2. Quintet For 2 Violins, 2 Violas And Cello In C Major: II. Adagio molto espressivo
      3. Quintet For 2 Violins, 2 Violas And Cello In C Major: III. Scherzo. Allegro
      4. Quintet For 2 Violins, 2 Violas And Cello In C Major: IV. Presto
      5. Prelude And Fugue For 2 Violins And Cello In E Minor: Praeludium
      6. Prelude And Fugue For 2 Violins And Cello In E Minor: Fuge
      7. Six Minuets For Two Violins And Bass: No. 1 In E Flat Major
      8. Six Minuets For Two Violins And Bass: No. 2 In G Major
      9. Six Minuets For Two Violins And Bass: No. 3 In C Major
      10. Six Minuets For Two Violins And Bass: No. 4 In F Major
      11. Six Minuets For Two Violins And Bass: No. 5 In D Major
      12. Six Minuets For Two Violins And Bass: No. 6 In G Major
      13. Duet For Viola And Cello In E Flat Major: Allegro
      14. Duet For Viola And Cello In E Flat Major: Allegretto
      15. Six Landler For Two Violins And Bass: No. 1 In D Major
      16. Six Landler For Two Violins And Bass: No. 2 In D Major
      17. Six Landler For Two Violins And Bass: No. 3 In D Major
      18. Six Landler For Two Violins And Bass: No. 4 In D Minor
      19. Six Landler For Two Violins And Bass: No. 5 In D Major
      20. Six Landler For Two Violins And Bass: No. 6 In D Major
      21. Duet For Two Violins In A Major
      22. Canon In A Major (Probably For Two Violins)

      Tracks:

      1. Six Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 1. Air ecossais: 'The Cottage Maid'. Tema. Andantino quasi Allegretto - Var. I-II - Var. III. Allegro - Tempo I
      2. Six Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 2. Air ecossais: 'Von edlem Geschlect war Shinkin'. Tema. Allegretto scherzoso - Var. I-II - Var. III. Allegretto-Allegro
      3. Six Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 3. Air autrichien: 'A Schusserl und a Reindl'. Tema. Andantino - Var. I-IV - Var. V. Adagio sostenuto, ma non troppo - Var. VI. Andante con moto
      4. Six Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 4. Air ecossais: 'The Last Rose Of Summer'. Tema. Andante expressivo assai - Var. I-III
      5. Six Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 5. Air ecossais: 'Chiling O'Guiry'. Tema. Allegretto spiritoso - Var. I-II - Var. III. Allegro assai
      6. Six Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 6. Air ecossais: 'Paddy Whack'. Tema. Allegretto piu tosto vivace - Var. I-IV
      7. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 1. Air tirolien: 'I bin a Tiroler Bua'. Tema. Moderato - Var. I-III - Var. IV. Allegro
      8. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 2. Air ecossais: 'Bonnie Laddie, Highland Laddie'. Tema. Allegretto, quasi vivace - Var. I-III - Var. IV. Andante mosso, alla Siciliano - Allegro
      9. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 3. Volkslied aus Kleinrussland. Tema. Vivace - Var. I-IV - Var. V. Adagio sostenuto - Tempo I
      10. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: Air ecossais: 'St .Patrick's Day'. Tema. Allegretto scherzoso - Var. I - Var. II. Poco adagio - Vivace - Moderato - Tempo I
      11. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 5. Air tirolien: 'A Madel, ja a Madel'. Tema. Moderato - Var. I-II - Var. III. Maestoso - Allegro
      12. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 6. Air ecossais: 'Peggy's Daughter'. Tema. Andante comodo - Var. I-III - Var. IV. Vivace
      13. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 7. Air russe: 'Schone Minka'. Tema. Andante - Var. I-IV - Var. V. Andante moderato - Var. VI. Allegro - Adagio - Andante commodo - Poco vivace
      14. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 8. Air ecossais: 'O Mary At Thy Window Be'. Tema. Andantino quasi Allegretto - Var. I-III - Var. IV. Un poco piu mosso - Allegro assai
      15. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 9. Air ecossais: 'Oh, Thou Art The Lad Of My Heart'. Tema. Allegretto piu tosto vivace - Var. I - Var. II. Cantabile e legato - Var. III - Var. IV. Andante espressivo - Var. V. Vivace
      16. Ten Themes With Variations For Piano And Flute: 10. Air ecossais: 'The Highland Watch'. Tema. Spiritoso e marziale - Var. I-II - Var. III. Piu moto - Var. IV. Adagio espressivo - Var. V. Allegro
      17. Duo For Two Flute In G Major: Allegro con brio
      18. Duo For Two Flute In G Major: Minuetto quasi Allegretto

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars The "Unknown" Beethoven..........2005-01-03


      I think it would not be wrong to say that most casual listeners of classical music know Beethoven mostly by his orchestral works--the symphonies, piano concertos, violin concerto, and overtures. Those who go a little deeper might know him by the piano sonatas, violin sonatas, and string quartets; however, this misses a significant portion of his oeuvre--and a major facet of his ethos and art: specifically, the chamber works and lieder: this is the "unknown" Beethoven.

      This collection is absolutely the best, finest, and most excellent presentation of Beethoven's chamber works: the Horn Sonata; the Piano-Wind Quintet; the Serenade for Flute, Violin, and Viola; the Clarinet Trio; the Septet for mixed strings & winds; and the String Quintet.

      Plus, some really nice esoterica: the early piano quartets; trio for piano, flute & bassoon; pieces for mandolin & piano; and pieces for flute & piano.

      All of these works fall into Beethoven's First Period; yet, they must not be considered "juvenalia": Beethoven was the greatest artist/poet who ever lived, and his genius was manifest from his teenage years.

      5 out of 5 stars Simply Delightful!.......2004-12-23

      This is a wonderful collection of Beethoven chamber music. The recordings are intimate, the musicianship is superb...the music is timeless. The piano concerti are the real highlights here; I don't think they can be any better, and the other selections are very pleasant. If you like Beethoven chamber music (and I can't imagine NOT liking it), then this set is highly recommended. Every now and then you come across a boxed set of recordings that you can listen to over and over. This is one such set.

      5 out of 5 stars Brilliant if sometimes odd rhythm and tempo.......2001-01-10

      This CD, part of the magnus opus of Beethoven's works committed to CD is wonderfully brilliant and evocative of the renditions of the early 1950's.

      Although there are the rare rhythmic, and very rare tempo peculiarities this must remain as one of the finest renditions of Beethoven's Chamber Works. This is of course to be expected from works produced by DDG.

      A highly recommended set of CDs that should have pride of place in any serious collector of Beethoven's music and these CDs have the brilliant quality associated with the plastics produced by DDG.
      Beethoven: Complete String Quartets
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • An excellent deal
      • Great bargain!!!
      • Overall, great value
      • Pleasant sounds for an economic price
      • A Bargain, for Sure
      		 Beethoven: Complete String Quartets

      Manufacturer: Nimbus Records
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
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      All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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      Similar Items:
      1. Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas
      2. Brahms: Complete String Quartets, Quintets & Sextets
      3. Shostakovich: The String Quartets
      4. Brahms: Works for Solo Piano
      5. Beethoven: Piano Sonatas (Complete) [Box Set]

      ASIN: B0000037BC
      Release Date: 1995-03-29

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 18 No. 1: I. Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 18 No. 1: II. Adagio affettuoso ed appassionato - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 18 No. 1: III. Scherzo: Allegro molto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 18 No. 1: IV. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In G Major, Opus 18 No. 2: I. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In G Major, Opus 18 No. 2: II. Adagio cantabile - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In G Major, Opus 18 No. 2: III. Scherzo: Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      8. String Quartet In G Major, Opus 18 No. 2: IV. Allegro molto quasi Presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      9. String Quartet In D Major, Opus 18 No. 3: I. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      10. String Quartet In D Major, Opus 18 No. 3: II. Andante - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      11. String Quartet In D Major, Opus 18 No. 3: III. Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      12. String Quartet In D Major, Opus 18 No. 3: IV. Presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In C Minor, Opus 18 No. 4: I. Allegro ma non tanto - L.V. Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In C Minor, Opus 18 No. 4: II Scherzo: Andante scherzoso quasi Allegretto - L.V. Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In C Minor, Opus 18 No. 4: III. Menuetto e Trio: Allegretto - L.V. Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In C Minor, Opus 18 No. 4: IV. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In A Major, Opus 18 No. 5: I. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In A Major, Opus 18 No. 5: II. Menuetto e Trio - L.V. Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In A Major, Opus 18 No. 5: III. Andante cantabile - L.V. Beethoven
      8. String Quartet In A Major, Opus 18 No. 5: IV. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      9. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 18 No. 6: I. Allegro con brio - L.V. Beethoven
      10. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 18 No. 6: II. Adagio ma non troppo - L.V. Beethoven
      11. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 18 No. 6: III. Scherzo e Trio: Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      12. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 18 No. 6: IV. La Malinconia: Adagio - Allegretto quasi Allegro - L.V. Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 29: I. Allegro moderato - L.V. Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 29: II. Adagio molto espressivo - L.V. Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 29: III. Scherzo & Trio: Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 29: IV. Presto - L.V. Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 59 No. 1 'Razumovsky': I. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 59 No. 1 'Razumovsky': II. Allegretto vivace e sempre scherzando - L.V. Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 59 No. 1 'Razumovsky': III. Adagio molto e mesto - L.V. Beethoven
      8. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 59 No. 1 'Razumovsky': IV. Theme Russe: Allegro - L.V. Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In E Minor, Opus 59 No. 2 'Razumovsky': I. Allegro - Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In E Minor, Opus 59 No. 2 'Razumovsky': II. Molto Adagio - Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In E Minor, Opus 59 No. 2 'Razumovsky': III. Allegretto - Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In E Minor, Opus 59 No. 2 'Razumovsky': IV. Finale: Presto - Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 59 No. 3 'Razumovsky': I. Introduzione: Andante con moto - Allegro vivace - Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 59 No. 3 'Razumovsky': II. Andante con moto quasi Allegretto - Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 59 No. 3 'Razumovsky': III. Menuetto: Grazioso - Beethoven
      8. String Quartet In C Major, Opus 59 No. 3 'Razumovsky': IV. Allegro molto - Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 74 'Harp': I. Poco Adagio - Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 74 'Harp': II. Adagio ma non troppo - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 74 'Harp': III. Presto - Piu presto quasi prestissimo - Tempo 1 - Piu presto quasi prestissimo - Tempo 1 - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 74 'Harp': IV. Allegretto con Variazioni - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In F Minor, Opus 95 'Quartetto serioso': I. Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In F Minor, Opus 95 'Quartetto serioso': II. Allegretto ma non troppo - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In F Minor, Opus 95 'Quartetto serioso': III. Allegro assai vivace ma serioso - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      8. String Quartet In F Minor, Opus 95 'Quartetto serioso': IV. Larghetto espressivo - Allegretto agitato - Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 130: I. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 130: II. Presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 130: III. Andante con moto ma non troppo - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 130: IV. Alla danza tedesca. Allegro assai - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 130: V. Cavatina. Adagio molto espressivo - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 130: VI. Gosse Fuge, Op.133 - Original Finale of Op. 130 - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In B Flat Major, Opus 130: VII. Finale (Allegro) - Replacement Finale of Op. 130 - Ludwig Van Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 127: I. Maestoso - Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 127: II. Adagio, ma non troppo e molto cantabile - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 127: III. Scherzando vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In E Flat Major, Opus 127: IV. Finale - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Opus 131: No. 1 Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivo - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Opus 131: No. 2 Allegro molto vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Opus 131: No. 3 Allegro moderato - Adagio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      8. String Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Opus 131: No. 4 Andante ma non troppo e molto cantabile - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      9. String Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Opus 131: No. 5 Presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      10. String Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Opus 131: No. 6 Adagio quasi un poco andante - Ludwig Van Beethoven
      11. String Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Opus 131: No. 7 Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven

      Tracks:

      1. String Quartet In A minor, Opus 132: I. Assai sostenuto - Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      2. String Quartet In A minor, Opus 132: II. Allegro ma non tanto - L.V. Beethoven
      3. String Quartet In A minor, Opus 132: IV. Heiliger Dankgesang eines Genesenen an die Gottheit in der Lydischen Tonart: Molto adagio - Andante - L.V. Beethoven
      4. String Quartet In A minor, Opus 132: I.V Alla Marcia, assai vivace - Piu allegro - L.V. Beethoven
      5. String Quartet In A minor, Opus 132: V. Allegro appassionato - L.V. Beethoven
      6. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 135: I. Allegretto - L.V. Beethoven
      7. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 135: II. Vivace - L.V. Beethoven
      8. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 135: III. Lento assai, cantante e tranquillo - L.V. Beethoven
      9. String Quartet In F Major, Opus 135: IV. Grave ma non troppo - Allegro - L.V. Beethoven

      Amazon.com

      Beethoven's quartets are a cornerstone of Western music, and this bargain-priced set of all of them is wonderful. The Medici, an English quartet, play without frill or exaggeration, and their techniques cannot be faulted. From the joy of some of the early works to the torment of the last handful (and "Grosse Fuge"), they communicate all the composer's humanity. This eight-CD set is a real find. --Robert Levine

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars An excellent deal.......2006-10-16

      This bargain box, is an excellent deal. The Medici Quartet make listening to these masterpieces a very enjoyable experience indeed. I know they're not perfectly done, but they're more enjoyable than most of the Beethoven quartet recordings that's for sure. The discs sound quality is dreamy good and the Medici Quartet are musical without exception.

      Highlights: Op. 18, Op. 95, Op. 127 and 131.
      Almost every performance sparkles, and the price is mind-boggling.

      5 out of 5 stars Great bargain!!!.......2006-04-27

      The Medici Quartet's Beethoven cycle is a great bargain. Here you'll find some magical performances with only a few flaws. But for me, these "flaws" are just a friendly reminder of how hard this music is to play. The sound quality is large in that Nimbus records way, but it works. As John from New York wrote: turning up the bass -one notch- is a good idea, but not essential. These recordings are crisp, clear, and brilliantly performed. The only performances I didn't care for were Op. 59 no. 1, Op. 130 and Op. 133. But, the rest ranged from really good to great, which includes a beautiful string quintet Op.29.

      Call me nuts or musically uneducated, but I'd take these over the Takacs Quartet's Beethoven anytime.

      4 out of 5 stars Overall, great value.......2006-01-26

      I have not heard too many entire sets of the Beethoven Quartets but I would be shocked if there is one set with 16 outstanding performances. It just does not happen. This bargain set has 13 excellent performances out of 17 (it also includes the opus 29 quintet). The weak performances are from opus 18: Nos. 1, 4 and 6 plus opus 95. I found the rest to be quite wonderful, especially opus 74, 127 and 135. This 8 CD set costs the same as two full-priced CDs. You can't go wrong at that price.

      4 out of 5 stars Pleasant sounds for an economic price.......2005-12-24

      I agree whole-heartedly with the previous reviewer that the Medici String Quartet's performances on this CD Box Collection are by no means the highest of quality interpretation of Beethoven's renown String Quartets, yet they are far from the worst. I found the recording to be pristine and clear, and found it quite enjoyable. I would not consider this collection free from flaws, nor could I many other, yet I find that this collection's extremely great price outweighs any of its flaws.

      In conclusion, I rate this interpretation 4 stars for its steal of a price and minimal flaws. For the average consumer lacking 50 to a 100+ dollars to spend on a single music purchase, this is the perfect collection for you. If this is not an issue,however, then go for the higher quality reproductions (although I have no doubt that this version is very well sufficient and enjoyable for the casual and enthusiast buyers alike).

      4 out of 5 stars A Bargain, for Sure.......2005-09-21

      I certainly agree that this set is a deal--lots of Beethoven, in committed performances and fine sound, for very little money. Realistically, the Medici Quartet do their best work in the Early Quartets, capturing all the confidence and swagger of the young Beethoven announcing his mastery in chamber music's most challenging medium. Equally fine is the Medici's bonus String Quintet in C, which despite being written on the verge of Beethoven's Middle Period is one of his most classically poised chamber works.

      In the Middle and Late Quartets, where the challenge from big-name string quartets is fierce, the Medici are not quite as effective. Some critics say a string quartet is only as strong as its cello player since this member must be relied on to give weight and contour to a performance. If that's the case, the Medici's Anthony Lewis lets the quartet down somewhat. His intonation is not always dead-on, and in some of the more difficult music--such as Opus 59, No. 3, with its breakneck fugal finale and first movement with exposed runs for the cello--he doesn't quite come through for the Medici. This certainly doesn't disqualify the set from serious consideration; the performances are still well judged and mostly well played. It's just that the set won't be a first choice if you want the very finest performances. In that case you will probably want to turn to the Takacs on Decca, for instance.

      On the other hand, mistakes by the Medici are few; maybe the most glaring is the allegretto tempo the quartet takes for the scherzo of the Opus 95. Beethoven's marking: Allegro assai vivace. Just listen to the limp impression that the Medici make, and you will realize that Beethoven knew what he was asking for. Any slower tempo drains this music of its superbly manic quality. The tempo choice throws a wet blanket as well on the last movement, where Beethoven seems to be trying out a new chamber music language before the lighthearted, almost mocking coda in the major key. In this work, Beethoven is just about to turn the corner toward his Late Period. The quartet should seethe with the restlessness of a composer on the verge of a breakthrough. The Medici seem oblivious to the fact. And surprisingly, despite their vigorous performances of the Early Quartets, their playing in the Haydnesque replacement finale of Op. 130 lacks dash and wit.

      Otherwise, the performances here are thoroughly solid even if they are without great distinction. Then again, the performances of the Early Quartets and of the Quintet seem just about perfect to me. And the sound is first-class throughout. So if you want a very respectable overview of the Beethoven String Quartets at a budget price, the Medici version is entirely recommendable.
      Beethoven: Complete String Quartets, Vol. 8
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Beautiful Recording by Outstanding Musicians
      		 Beethoven: Complete String Quartets, Vol. 8

      Manufacturer: Naxos
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      Similar Items:
      1. Beethoven: Complete String Quartets, Vol. 9
      2. Beethoven: String Quartets, Vol. 7
      3. Beethoven: String Quartets (Complete), Vol. 4
      4. Beethoven: String Quartets, Vol.5
      5. Beethoven: String Quartets, Vol. 6

      ASIN: B00004YYQS
      Release Date: 2000-11-14

      Tracks:

      1. Str Qt in B flat, Op.130: Adagio Ma Non Troppo: Allegro
      2. Str Qt in B flat, Op.130: Presto
      3. Str Qt in B flat, Op.130: Andante Con Moto Ma Non Troppo
      4. Str Qt in B flat, Op.130: Alla Danza Tedesca: Allegro Assai
      5. Str Qt in B flat, Op.130: Cavatina: Adagio Molto Espressivo
      6. Str Qt in B flat, Op.130: Finale: Allegro
      7. Grosse Fuge, Op.133

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Beautiful Recording by Outstanding Musicians.......2006-06-04

      When the two quartets on this CD were recorded, the Kodaly Quartet ("KQ") had been playing together for over twenty years. It shows. What is evident on this CD is the perfect cohesion of the musicians; they clearly have an intimate knowledge of the score, have played these two quartets many times over the years, and thoroughly enjoy playing together. Yet, although the KQ had been together for more than two decades at the time they made this recording, the performance of these four highly talented musicians sounds fresh and exciting, as if they were exploring the magic of these quartets for the first time, and truly conveys their passionate enthusiasm and love for this music.

      The sound engineering on this digital recording is first-rate, with a bright, clear sound that gives a feeling of immediacy and presence to the instruments. Although I somewhat prefer the deeper, richer sound of the Cleveland Quartet in its recording of these same quartets, I very much like the sound of the KQ as well and enjoy listening to the same quartets performed by both groups.

      The allegro movements on this CD have rhythmic energy and vitality, while the adagio movements are played with a beautiful tenderness, pathos, depth and sensitivity to every nuance of every note that allows the listener to savor every note and that takes the listener on a wonderful musical journey deep into the inner world of Beethoven's late quartets.

      The musicianship of the KQ is superb, with the musicians conveying the full range of emotions in this musical microcosm: playfulness, elegance, wistfulness, anxiety, and brooding intensity.

      I am very highly pleased with every volume of this series of the complete Beethoven string quartets by the KQ. The CD booklet has information on the KQ and a well-written and informative essay with historical information and a musical analysis of each of the two quartets.

      This is an excellent CD at a very reasonable price. I would gladly have paid twice as much for it. In fact, it's almost unbelievable that a CD of such high quality is available at such a low price. Very highly recommended.
      Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 13: Late String Quartets
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Beethoven... Metafísico
      		 Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 13: Late String Quartets
      Ludwig van Beethoven , Jack Kirstein , and LaSalle Quartet
      Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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      Similar Items:
      1. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 11: Early String Quartets
      2. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 9: Piano Trios
      3. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 10: String Trios
      4. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 7: Violin Sonatas
      5. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 4: Fidelio/Leonore

      ASIN: B000001GZG
      Release Date: 1997-12-09

      Tracks:

      1. Quartet In E Flat Major Op. 127: Maestoso - Allegro
      2. Quartet In E Flat Major Op. 127: Adagio, ma non troppo e molto cantabile - Andante con moto - Adagio molto espessivo - Tempo I
      3. Quartet In E Flat Major Op. 127: Scherzando. Vivace
      4. Quartet In E Flat Major Op. 127: Allegro - Allegro comodo
      5. Quartet In C Sharp Minor Op. 131: Adagio, ma non troppo e molto espressivo - attacca:
      6. Quartet In C Sharp Minor Op. 131: Allegro molto vivace - attacca:
      7. Quartet In C Sharp Minor Op. 131: Allegro moderato - attacca:
      8. Quartet In C Sharp Minor Op. 131: Andante, ma non troppo e molto cantabile - Piu mosso - Andante moderato e lusinghiero - Adagio - Allegretto - Adagio, ma non troppo e semplice - Allegretto - attacca:
      9. Quartet In C Sharp Minor Op. 131: Presto - Molto poco adagio - attacca:
      10. Quartet In C Sharp Minor Op. 131: Adagio quasi un poco andante - attacca:
      11. Quartet In C Sharp Minor Op. 131: Allegro

      Tracks:

      1. Quartet In B Flat Major Op. 130: Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro
      2. Quartet In B Flat Major Op. 130: Presto
      3. Quartet In B Flat Major Op. 130: Andante con moto, ma non troppo
      4. Quartet In B Flat Major Op. 130: Alla danza tedesca. Allegro assai
      5. Quartet In B Flat Major Op. 130: Cavatina. Adagio molto espressivo
      6. Quartet In B Flat Major Op. 130: Grand Fuge (Op. 133) - Overtura. Allegro - Meno mosso e moderato - Allegro - Fuga. (Allegro) - Meno mosso e moderato - Allegro molto e con brio - Allegro
      7. Quartet In B Flat Major Op. 130: Finale: Allegro

      Tracks:

      1. Quartet In A Minor Op. 132: Assai sostenuto - Allegro
      2. Quartet In A Minor Op. 132: Allegro ma non tanto
      3. Quartet In A Minor Op. 132: A Convalescent's Holy Song Of Thanksgiving To The Deity, In The Lydian Mode - Molto adagio (Feeling New Strength) - Andante - Molto adagio - Andante - Molto adagio. Mit innigster Empfindung
      4. Quartet In A Minor Op. 132: Alla marcia, assai vivace - Piu allegro - attacca:
      5. Quartet In A Minor Op. 132: Allegro appassionato - Presto
      6. Quartet In F Major Op. 135: Allegretto
      7. Quartet In F Major Op. 135: Vivace
      8. Quartet In F Major Op. 135: Lento assai, cantante e tranquillo
      9. Quartet In F Major Op. 135: Der schwer gefasste Entschluss (The Difficult Decision) - Grave, ma non troppo tanto (Must It Be?) - Allegro (It Must Be!) - Grave, ma non troppo tratto - Allegro

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Beethoven... Metafísico.......2000-03-23

      El último periodo de la vida del gran maestro, su música como que está compuesta con una profundidad más allá de lo terrenal, es música no para los oídos sino para el alma trascendente. Esto sobre todo en los últimos cuartetos. Las interpretaciones de LaSalle, son de un nivel artístico, extraordinario (por algo los de la DGG incluyeron este set en la EDICION BEETHOVEN), el cuarteto Op. 130 viene de la forma que actualmente se está interpretando con la Gran fuga como parte integrante del cuarteto (La forma original). Es interesante oír el último movimiento de éste cuarteto, las últimas notas de nuestro querido Ludwig. Cómo es tan optimista y vencedor hasta el momento final de su vida terrenal, Qué lección para la humanidad!

      No dude cómprelo.
      Beethoven: The Complete String Quartets 1952 Recordings
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        		Beethoven: The Complete String Quartets 1952 Recordings
        Vegh Quartet
        Manufacturer: Music & Arts Program
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

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        Similar Items:
        1. Shostakovich: The String Quartets
        2. Pablo Casals: Festivals at Prades Vol. 1
        3. The Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and DVDs 2005/06 Edition: The Key Classical Recordings on CD, DVD and SACD, 30th Anniversary Edition (Penguin Guide to Compact Discs and Dvds)
        4. Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
        5. Mahler: Symphony No. 5

        ASIN: B00005NG65
        Release Date: 2006-01-01

        Tracks:

        1. 1. Allegro Con Brio
        2. 2. Adagio Affettuoso Ed Appassionato
        3. 3. Scherzo. Allegro Molto
        4. 4. Allegro
        5. 1. Allegro
        6. 2. Adagio Cantabile/Allegro/Tempo I
        7. 3. Scherzo. Allegro
        8. 4. Allegro Molto Quasi Presto
        9. 1. Allegro
        10. 2. Andante Con Moto
        11. 3. Allegro
        12. 4. Presto

        Tracks:

        1. 1. Allegro Ma Non Tanto
        2. 2. Scherzo. Andante Scherzoso Quasi Allegretto
        3. 3. Menuetto. Allegretto
        4. 4. Allegro/Prestissimo
        5. 1. Allegro
        6. 2. Menuetto
        7. 3. Andante Cantabile. Thema - Variations I-V/Coda. Poco Adagio
        8. 4. Allegro
        9. 1. Allegro Con Brio
        10. 2. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
        11. 3. Scherzo. Allegro
        12. 4. La Malinconia. Adagio/Allegretto Quasi Allegro

        Tracks:

        1. 1. Allegro
        2. 2. Allegretto Vivace E Sempre Scherzando
        3. 3. Adagio Molto E Mesto - Attacca:
        4. 4. Theme Russe. Allegro
        5. 1. Allegro
        6. 2. Molto Adagio. Si Tratta Questo Pezzo Con Molto Di Sentimento
        7. 3. Allegretto
        8. 4. Finale. Presto

        Tracks:

        1. 1. Introduzione. Andante Con Moto/Allegro Vivace
        2. 2. Andante Con Moto Quasi Allegretto
        3. 3. Menuetto. Grazioso - Attacca:
        4. 4. Allegro Molto
        5. 1. Poco Adagio/Allegro
        6. 2. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
        7. 3. Presto - Attacca:
        8. 4. Allegretto Con Variazioni

        Tracks:

        1. 1. Allegro Con Brio
        2. 2. Allegretto Ma Non Troppo - Attacca:
        3. 3. Allegro Assai Vivace Ma Serioso
        4. 4. Larghetto Espressivo/Allegretto Agitato
        5. 1. Maestro/Allegro
        6. 2. Adagio, Ma Non Troppo E Molto Cantabile/Andante Con Moto/Adagio Molto Espressivo
        7. 3. Scherzando Vivace/Presto
        8. 4. Finale
        9. Overtura. Allegro - Fuga/Meno Mosso E Moderato/Allegro Molto E Con Brio/Meno Mosso E Moderato/Allegro Molto E Con Brio/Allegro

        Tracks:

        1. 1. Adagio Ma Non Troppo - Allegro
        2. 2. Presto
        3. 3. Andante Con Moto, Ma Non Troppo
        4. 4. Alla Danza Tedesca. Allegro Assai
        5. 5. Cavatina. Adagio Molto Espressivo - Attacca:
        6. 6. Finale. Allegro
        7. 1. Adagio, Ma Non Troppo E Molto Espressivo - Attacca:
        8. 2. Allegro Molto Vivace - Attacca:
        9. 3. Allegro Moderato - Attacca:
        10. 4. Andante, Ma Non Troppo E Molto Cantabile/Andante Moderato E Lusinghiero/Adagio/Allegretto/Adagio, Ma Non Troppo E Semplice/Allegretto
        11. 5. Presto/Molto Poco Adagio - Attacca:
        12. 6. Adagio Quasi Un Poco Andante - Attacca:
        13. 7. Allegro

        Tracks:

        1. 1. Assai Sostenuto/Allegro
        2. 2. Allegro Ma Non Tanto
        3. 3. Helliger Dankgesang Eines Genesenden An Die Gottheit, In Der Lydischen Tonart. Molto Adagio - Neue Kraft Fuhlend. Andante/Molto Adagio/Andante Molto Adagio. Mit Innigster Empfindung
        4. 4. Alla Marcia, Assai Vivace - Piu Allegro - Attacca:
        5. 5. Allegro Appassionato
        6. 1. Allegretto
        7. 2. Vivace
        8. 3. Lente Assai E Cantante Tranquillo
        9. 4. Der Schwer Gefasste Entschluss. Grave (Muss Es Sein?)/Allegro (Es Muss Sein!)/Grave, Ma Non Troppo Tratto/Allegro

        Amazon.com

        Few groups have successfully recorded Beethoven's complete quartets with the requisite technical facility and interpretive depth. They include such premier performers as the Busch (not quite complete), Budapest, Talich, Vegh, Italiano, and most recently, the Emerson. Each illuminates aspects of these quartets in a unique fashion.

        The Vegh's early 1970s set, available on Valois, has been treasured for its warmth and subtlety. But the same foursome's earlier recording for the Haydn Society has long been unavailable, so this first CD reissue is a welcome, fascinating companion to their heralded stereo version. In 1952, the Veghs were more blunt and more direct, using slightly faster tempos and a more objective approach, though full of individual touches not found elsewhere. The dry but clear sonics de-emphasize the cello-based warmth of the group's tonality and contribute to the more severe impression. The six quartets of Opus 18 are sober, missing the humor that most groups, including the 1972 Vegh, found in them, and the Grosse Fugue gets stodgy in places. But there's little to quibble about elsewhere. Every movement in this set quivers with interpretive integrity, and many of the individual quartets, including the Opus 59 No.1 and the Opus 130, are among the best ever. Housed in a compact box and priced competitively, this long-awaited reissue will be attractive to collectors. --Dan Davis

        Product Description

        Vegh Quartet: Sandor Vegh, Sandor Zoldy, Georges Janzer, Paul Szabo. Special Price: 7 CDs for the price of 4
        Beethoven: Complete String Quartets
        Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
        • An overrated performance
        • All in all---a great set
        • Lackluster Ludwig!
        • Gramophone "Top 100 Recording"
        • Geez! How many 5* reviews do you want. Its great - Get it.
        		 Beethoven: Complete String Quartets
        Ludwig van Beethoven , Quartetto Italiano , Piero Farulli , Elisa Pegreffi , and Paolo Borciani
        Manufacturer: Philips
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

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        Similar Items:
        1. Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas
        2. Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
        3. Beethoven: The String Quartets/ Grosse Fuge
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        5. Haydn: Complete Piano Trios

        ASIN: B0000041LL
        Release Date: 1997-09-16

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In F Major, Op.18 No.1: 1. Allegro con brio
        2. Quartet In F Major, Op.18 No.1: 2. Adagio affettuoso ed appassionato
        3. Quartet In F Major, Op.18 No.1: 3. Scherzo. Allegro molto
        4. Quartet In F Major, Op.18 No.1: 4. Allegro
        5. Quartet In G Major, Op.18 No.2: 1. Allegro
        6. Quartet In G Major, Op.18 No.2: 2. Adagio cantabile - Allegro - Tempo I
        7. Quartet In G Major, Op.18 No.2: 3. Scherzo. Allegro
        8. Quartet In G Major, Op.18 No.2: 4. Allegro molto, quasi presto

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In D Major, Op.18 No.3: 1. Allegro
        2. Quartet In D Major, Op.18 No.3: 2. Andante con moto
        3. Quartet In D Major, Op.18 No.3: 3. Allegro
        4. Quartet In D Major, Op.18 No.3: 4. Presto
        5. Quartet In C Minor, Op.18 No.4: 1. Allegro ma non tanto
        6. Quartet In C Minor, Op.18 No.4: 2. Andante scherzoso, quasi allegretto
        7. Quartet In C Minor, Op.18 No.4: 3. Menuetto. Allegretto
        8. Quartet In C Minor, Op.18 No.4: 4. Allegro

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In A Major, Op.18 No.5: 1. Allegro
        2. Quartet In A Major, Op.18 No.5: 2. Menuetto
        3. Quartet In A Major, Op.18 No.5: 3. Andante cantabile
        4. Quartet In A Major, Op.18 No.5: 4. Allegro
        5. Quartet In B-Flat Major, Op.18 No.6: 1. Allegro con brio
        6. Quartet In B-Flat Major, Op.18 No.6: 2. Adagio ma non troppo
        7. Quartet In B-Flat Major, Op.18 No.6: 3. Scherzo. Allegro
        8. Quartet In B-Flat Major, Op.18 No.6: 4. La Malinconia. Adagio - Allegretto quasi allegro - Adagio - Allegretto - Poco adagio - Prestissimo

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In F Major, Op.59 No.1: 1. Allegro
        2. Quartet In F Major, Op.59 No.1: 2. Allegretto vivace e sempre scherzando
        3. Quartet In F Major, Op.59 No.1: 3. Allegro molto e mesto
        4. Quartet In F Major, Op.59 No.1: 4. Theme russe. Allegro

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In E Minor, Op.59 No.2: 1. Allegro
        2. Quartet In E Minor, Op.59 No.2: 2. Molto adagio
        3. Quartet In E Minor, Op.59 No.2: 3. Allegretto
        4. Quartet In E Minor, Op.59 No.2: 4. Finale. Presto
        5. Quartet In F Minor, Op.95: 1. Allegro con brio
        6. Quartet In F Minor, Op.95: 2. Allegretto ma non troppo
        7. Quartet In F Minor, Op.95: 3. Allegro assai vivace ma serioso
        8. Quartet In F Minor, Op.95: 4. Larghetto espressivo - Allegretto agitato

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In C Major, Op.59 No.3: 1. Introduzione. Andante con moto - Allegro vivace
        2. Quartet In C Major, Op.59 No.3: 2. Andante con moto quasi allegretto
        3. Quartet In C Major, Op.59 No.3: 3. Menuetto. Grazioso
        4. Quartet In C Major, Op.59 No.3: 4. Allegro molto
        5. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.74: 1. Poco adagio - Allegro
        6. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.74: 2. Adagio ma non troppo
        7. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.74: 3. Presto - Piu presto quasi prestissimo
        8. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.74: 4. Allegretto con variazioni

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.127: 1. Maestoso - Allegro
        2. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.127: 2. Adagio, ma non troppo e molto cantabile
        3. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.127: 3. Scherzando vivace
        4. Quartet In E-Flat Major, Op.127: 4. Finale
        5. Quartet In F Major, Op.135: 1. Allegretto
        6. Quartet In F Major, Op.135: 2. Vivace
        7. Quartet In F Major, Op.135: 3. Lento assai, cantante e tranquillo
        8. Quartet In F Major, Op.135: 4. Der schwer gefasste Entschluss. Grave - Allegro - Grave ma non troppo tratto - Allegro

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In B Flat Major, Op. 130: 1. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro - Beethoven
        2. Quartet In B Flat Major, Op. 130: 2. Presto - Beethoven
        3. Quartet In B Flat Major, Op. 130: 3. Andante con moto ma non troppo. Poco Scherzando - Beethoven
        4. Quartet In B Flat Major, Op. 130: 4. Alla danza tedesca. Allegro assai - Beethoven
        5. Quartet In B Flat Major, Op. 130: Cavatina. Adagio molto espressivo - Beethoven
        6. Quartet In B Flat Major, Op. 130: Finale. Allegro - Beethoven
        7. Quartet In B Flat Major, Op.133: Overtura. Allegro - Meno mosso e moderato - Allegro - Fuga - Beethoven

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Op.131: 1. Adagio ma non troppo e molto espressivo - Beethoven
        2. Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Op.131: 2. Allegro molto vivace - Beethoven
        3. Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Op.131: 3. Allegro moderato - Beethoven
        4. Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Op.131: 4. Andante ma non troppo e molto cantabile - Piu mosso - Andante moderato e lusinghiero - Adagio - Allegretto - Adagio, ma non troppo e semplice - Allegretto - Beethoven
        5. Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Op.131: 5. Presto - Beethoven
        6. Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Op.131: 6. Adagio quasi un poco andante - Beethoven
        7. Quartet In C Sharp Minor, Op.131: 7. Allegro - Beethoven

        Tracks:

        1. Quartet In A Minor, Op.132: 1. Assai sostenuto - Allegro
        2. Quartet In A Minor, Op.132: 2. Allegro ma non tanto
        3. Quartet In A Minor, Op.132: 3. Canzona di ringraziamento. Molto adagio - Sentendo nuova forza. Andante
        4. Quartet In A Minor, Op.132: 4. Alla marcia, assai vivace - Piu allegro - Presto
        5. Quartet In A Minor, Op.132: 5. Allegro appassionato

        Customer Reviews:

        3 out of 5 stars An overrated performance.......2007-01-29

        Well, I really do not understand those who acclaim this recording with 5 stars. I sincerely urge you to go back to Busch or Budapest or the Lindsays or the Vegh or the Takacs.
        Concerning the late string quartets which should be core of this recording, I will give this recording 2 stars. 1 more star is for their Op.18 quartets.
        They can surely play this music, yes, but I highly doubt that they "know" and feel deeply at heart this music.
        A safe and boring and idle interpretation of the music. I want more intensity, more depth, more spiritied approach to this kind of music, but the Quartetto Italiano fails in every aspect that I can appreciate.
        Listen to the slow movement of the late quartets. Well, slow, but not touching. Especially that variation movent in Op.131. Very dull performance. And listen to the fast movements. Again, no concrete music making here.

        These people shine in their Haydn or maybe Debussy or Ravel, certainly not in Beethoven. Overall, they are just average performances, for the late quartets, a huge dissapointment.

        5 out of 5 stars All in all---a great set.......2005-11-15

        I can't add much to the praise stated over and over here----but I must say the warmth and deep feeling brought out by this quartet makes this set consistantly rewarding.

        The "Quartetto Serioso" still blows me away every time I hear it. And the bright pluckiness (pun intended) of the first movement of the 'Harp" quartet always lifts my spirits. I only mention these 2 because these solitary quartets are somewhat overlooked and undervalued, it seems.

        The Lindsays (some others too) tend to be more speedy and energetic----but this isnt always what is desired. I prefer the Lindsays in Op. 130's Presto, which is really quick, light and whimsical---and just has more sparkle than the Italians. But I have a feeling a boxed set of all 16 quartets with the Lindsays (and I hope they do this some day!) would have more shortcomings than this set.

        In the Razumovsky no.3, I would recommend the Budapest quartet's 1960 recording over the Italians, mainly because of their performance of the strange 2nd movement. The Budapest quartet often sounds cold and detached-----and this is a cold, weird movement-----so they are perfect, in this case!

        I must also commend the fine design of this boxed set. I like the neat little envelopes containing the cd's, rather than the typical plastic box with loose cd's flopping around and falling out when you open it, hinges that come undone, etc., etc.!!

        1 out of 5 stars Lackluster Ludwig!.......2005-04-25

        These were the first recordings of these works that I encountered as a young listener. I purchased the set on LP's and more or less steered clear of these works for a number of years until I heard other performances. Quartetto Italiano's boring performances of these dynamic masterpieces are among the worst on the market. In fact, the only set I can recall that would fall into this dismal class would be that by the Orford Quartet on the Delos label. I don't own the set on CD, but I have gone back to my old LP's on occasion only to find that my original impression of these performances was absolutely correct. If you're an insomniac, don't hesitate to grab either set.

        4 out of 5 stars Gramophone "Top 100 Recording".......2005-01-15

        Such complete works as this - spanning the composer's lifetime - make for an excellent study in the composer's musical evolution. Although termed "early" works, Beethoven's first Op. 18 Quartets were composed when he was around thirty, having dozens of brilliant compositions behind him. These first quartets show both the 'restrained' classical forms and mannerisms of Haydn but with notable evolutions like the introduction of deeply emotional and tragic writing (the slow movement of the No. 1). The "middle period" quartets (op. 59, 74) shows Beethoven at his most "Heroic" style composing broad, sweeping, and increasing complex part writing - so much that the fickle Viennese audiences used to Haydn's and Mozart's classical style were not quite sure what to think of them. Even more abstract to audiences (outside Beethoven's quartet friends) were the late works (Op. 130-135) which progress to totally new ideas, sounds and organization. These included unusual, frequent and unexpected shifts in dynamics, tempo and key modulations. But most historic was an intangible emotive quality Beethoven introduced to music which might be termed "spirituality." What is most amazing is that these musical revolutions all were developed when in Bethoven's final years lived in a state of sadness, illness, deafness and isolation. Yet, having a lifetime of notes and music in his head, his composing skills were not limited at all by this deafness but perhaps even more focused. With their highly evolutionary form and spiritual nature, the late quartets are in a category of their own and have provoked many an analysis as to their meaning and connection to Beethoven's final years.

        The Quartetto Italiano show why they were a legendary quartet in the 60's and 70's with a remarkable performance of great depth here. Complementing them is a vibrant Philips recording in spite of its 60's heritage. The sound is very good but just a little shy of depth and richness as compared to the modern DDD recordings like the new Takacs recordings (but absolutely nothing to deter purchase). One listen will reveal why it is a Gramophone "Top 100 Recording of all time." Given all the superb recordings since, this speaks highly of this set. Their playing is masterful, dramatic and probing - all while maintaining their characteristic smooth and emotive style that has endeared them for generations. Other notable quartets for these works include the Takacs, Emerson, Busch, Vegh, Talich, Alban Berg and Lindsay Quartets. All the above are rated 3/3 stars by Penguin Guide, so competion is fierce and it really comes down to what stylistic nuances most appeal to you. Other reviews below give some insights into the comparitive performance as each brings something different and insightful to the music (my first choices would be the Takacs or Alban Berg). So, get the one that most catches your interest and imagination. But, as far as value and quality of performance, this neatly-packaged Philips complete set of 10 CD's here may be hard to beat - although the superb Alban Berg set is a great value too. Compositions - 5 stars, Performance - 5 stars, Sound - 4.5 stars.

        Side note: Before Beethoven tackled the quartet genre, he wrote some pretty superb music for STRING TRIO which are lesser-known pieces brimming with freshness, imagination and delightful harmonies in the more "classical tradition." The Leopold Trio or Grumiaux Trio are excellent choices for these. These five works for string trio are a neglected part of Beethoven's music that is most rewarding and provide a context for the later, monumental string quartets.

        5 out of 5 stars Geez! How many 5* reviews do you want. Its great - Get it........2005-01-02

        Whilst I enjoyed the Lindsays Op.127 more thsn the rendition in this set, one doesn't make the whole and there is such consistency here. Each peace is given the attention it deserves and in some cases more - not every piece written by a master is a masterpiece.

        Overall and specifically, a fantastic set, a credit to the group and whilst the perfect place to start with these sometimes seemingly impossibly sublime works, I would have no objection to finishing with them as well.
        Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 12: Middle String Quartets
        Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
        • caution: only listen to this with decaf
        • Skip it, unless you love speed
        • Absolutely beautiful!!
        		 Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 12: Middle String Quartets
        Ludwig van Beethoven , and Emerson String Quartet
        Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
        All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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        Similar Items:
        1. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 13: Late String Quartets
        2. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 11: Early String Quartets
        3. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 10: String Trios
        4. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 9: Piano Trios
        5. Complete Beethoven Edition, Vol. 4: Fidelio/Leonore

        ASIN: B000001GZF
        Release Date: 1997-12-09

        Tracks:

        1. String Quartet op 59/3 in C major.: Andante con moto -- Allegro vivace - L.V. Beethoven
        2. String Quartet No.3 In C Major: Andante con moto quasi Allegretto - L.V. Beethoven
        3. String Quartet No.3 In C Major: Mennuetto grazioso -- attaca: - L.V. Beethoven
        4. String Quartet No.3 In C Major: Allegro molto - L.V. Beethoven
        5. String Quartet In E-flat Major Op.74: Poco Adagio - Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
        6. String Quartet In E-flat Major Op.74: Adagio ma non troppo - L.V. Beethoven
        7. String Quartet In E-flat Major Op.74: Presto - Piu presto quasi prestissimo - attaca: - L.V. Beethoven
        8. String Quartet In E-flat Major Op.74: Allegretto con Variazione - L.V. Beethoven
        9. String Quartet In F Minor Op.95: Allegro con brio - L.V. Beethoven
        10. String Quartet In F Minor Op.95: Allegretto ma non troppo - attaca: - L.V. Beethoven
        11. String Quartet In F Minor Op.95: Allegro assai vivace ma serioso - L.V. Beethoven
        12. String Quartet In F Minor Op.95: Larghetto espressivo - Allegretto agitato - Allegro - L.V. Beethoven

        Tracks:

        1. String Quartet No.1 In F Major: Allegro - Beethoven
        2. String Quartet No.1 In F Major: Allegretto vivace e sempre scherzando - Beethoven
        3. String Quartet No.1 In F Major: Adagio molto e mesto - attacca: - Beethoven
        4. String Quartet No.1 In F Major: Theme russe. Allegro - Beethoven
        5. String Quartet No.2 In E Minor: Allegro - Beethoven
        6. String Quartet No.2 In E Minor: Molto Adagio. Si tratta questo pezzo con molto di sentimento - Beethoven
        7. String Quartet No.2 In E Minor: Allegretto - Maggiore (Theme russe) - Beethoven
        8. String Quartet No.2 In E Minor: Finale: Presto - Beethoven

        Customer Reviews:

        2 out of 5 stars caution: only listen to this with decaf.......2004-03-04

        I've owned this set for two years now and have really tried to get into it. Initially it sounds beautifully recorded and fast paced, but after 15 minutes I surrender. The recording sounds bright with very little emotion. Well played, but no soul. If you want to hear how completely different the same music can sound, listen to the Cleveland Quartet doing Beethoven. I have bought a number of the Emersons CDs and sadly the pattern in my opinion is much the same - exceptional musicans displaying how well they can perform. I actually think their "fast/in your face" style would be engaging in a live performance, but I've yet to hear an Emerson CD that I'd call a first recommendation.

        2 out of 5 stars Skip it, unless you love speed.......2004-02-11

        I'm glad I've never seen these guys in a live performance because I would have been the heckler who got up and yelled, "Hey, boys, what's the hurry? Got a plane to catch?" Mind you, they play all the notes and stuff, it's the tempi that drove me up the wall. This music is difficult enough as it is without having it fly by you at breakneck speed. The Emersons are obviously in love with their own virtuosity -- isn't that special -- but the point of performance is to let the music speak for itself. Nuff said. 2 stars is generous. P.S. I can't stand the Toscanini, Gardner crowd either, but you probably guessed that.

        5 out of 5 stars Absolutely beautiful!!.......2000-09-04

        The Middle Quartets resemble a product of Beethoven's second period. A period of departure from the Haydn + Mozart influences with compositions such as Fidelio and the symphony in E flat, "Eroica". Also, from this period is the misterious sonata "Hammerklavier", although someone would argue that "Hammerklavier" was the first product of the third period.

        The first three Strings Quartets here are the very famous "Razumowsky Quartets", named after Count Andreas Razowmovsky -the Russian Embassador to Vienna-. They are here complete, in a special edition issued by Deutsche Grammophon in celebration of Beethoven's 100th. anniversary. Useless to say, DG is using here everything they could possibly do to get a product with an outstanding sound and presence and performance. To me, the sound from the media is as important as the rendition itself of the musicians. After all, this is not a Live Presentation you are attenting to.

        The "Razumovsky" Quartets were followed a few years later by Opus 74, also called "The Harp" and a year later or so, Opus 95. They are both here included. Pretty good job by DG and a Great Performance by the Emerson Quartet!

        The Emerson String Quartet is a premier ensemble of the United States, in particular, and the world of music and humanity in general, since they have championed many noble and humanitarian causes in addition of their immaculate performances. In this Double CD, the have given their heart and made one of their most outstanding performances according to the Critics.

        In summary: This CD is historically and melodically very important: The Razumowsky Quartets represent a major shift in Beethoven's musical direction. Secondly, the sound of the CD is just wonderful, absolutely beautiful!, and finally, but not less importantly, the rendition of the Emerson String Quartet is just incomparable. To my opinion, this is a "Must Have" Compac Disc, where the 100th anniversary of this towering genious is celebrated generously and without any reserve. You will love this CD!!!!

        Music Review:

        1. Bernstein Plays and Conducts Mozart
        2. Brahms: Piano Concertos Nos.1 & 2 [Import]
        3. Branca: Symphony 1
        4. Brian Ferneyhough: Music for Flute
        5. Bruckner: Symphony No. 8 (1887 version, ed. Nowak) / Symphony No. 0 "Die Nullte"
        6. Brundibar
        7. Celibidache [Box Set] [Box set]
        8. Cellissimo [Import]
        9. Chadwick: Symphonic Sketches; MacDowell: Suite for orchestra Op42/1-5
        10. Classic French Songs

        Music Review

        music review

        Music Review

        The Revolution of Everyday Life

        Mozart: Cosi Fan Tutte-Highlights

        Haydn: Menuetti Hob.IX:16

        Fallen Angel

        Kiss in Ibiza '96 [Import]

        Music of James Forte

        Lisa Sans Son Etoile [Import]

        Mass [Import]

        Process of Illumination [Import]

        Mauro Giuliani Solo Guitar Music performed on 19th Century Guitar

        Left Alone: Mal Waldron Portrait [Import]

        Heart of Havana, Vol. 2

        Feliz Navidad

        Your Blues

        Punk Goes '90s