Search - Brandis Quartet, Karl Leister, Johannes Brahms :: Brahms: String Quintet in F major, Op. 88; Clarinet Quintet in B minor, Op. 115

OK performance of great pieces of music

S. Heinen | Tulsa, OK United States | 10/10/2006

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I am strictly an amateur, but for whatever reason these recordings did not do it for me. I don't have much to compare this recording of the String Quintet to, but I strongly prefer the Emerson Quartet's recording of the Clarinet Quintet. It just seems to have more life and bounce than this one. If this was bargain-priced, it might be a good deal. But at full price, I think you can do better."

A great clarinet with a fine quartet in the old style

Aceto | Meilhan Sur Garonne | 11/03/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The previous reviewer is, amateur or not, quite right in her stated preference for the Emerson version. She know what she likes and the Emerson does what they set out to do. One who likes this might also check out the version on Hyperion by the Raphael Ensemble.



However, these Quintets are a great pieces of music and is genius enough for more than one interpretation. Mr. Leister has worked this Quintet many times. He is perfectly combined with the fine Brandis Quartet. But the style is warm and burnished. Emerson is bright and more energetic. For what they intend to do, Brandis does at least as well as the Emerson. For me it is a full five stars, especially on a good quality disc for a nice price."