Search - Antonin Dvorak, Prager Streichquartett, Prague String Quartet :: Dvorak: The String Quartets

Outstanding music in an outstanding recording.

Robert Fung | 02/09/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Dvorak's string quartets are among the finest ever written, yet aside from the famous "American" quartet, op. 96, and a few of the later works, they remain largely unknown. This is a shame, because most of the quartets are masterpieces, full of distinctive melodies and unlimited invention. These performances by the Prague String Quartet are the finest ever put to disc, and one of the few collections of the complete Dvorak quartets. Just listen to their light touch and warm tone in "Cypresses," or the bravado and tunefulness of the third movement of the "American" quartet. All of the performances sparkle, and the recording quality is consistently excellent. The only viable alternative is the Naxos edition performed by the Vlach Quartet, which is also quite good. That edition is probably slightly cheaper, but the Prague set is already at budget price and economically packaged in a slim box. Either way, you can't lose. If you haven't discovered these works yet, do so now. Dvorak's quartets are the equal of Beethoven's much more celebrated string quartets, Schubert's late quartets, the best quartets of Mozart and Haydn, and any other works you can name."

Probably the best complete set out there

Joey Joe Joe Jr. Shabadoo | Boston, MA USA | 11/03/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have heard multiple recordings of these quartets, including the Chiligirian quartet, and selections by the Prazak quartet, Talich Quartet, Hagen quartet, Melos quartet and Vlach quartet. However, these renditions are (in my opinion) the most adherent to the Czech folk roots. I'm sure it helps that the ensemble is in fact Czech-for that reason they seem to have an edge over some of the other notable groups which have made recordings. Everyone has obviously heard the American quartet, but just as fine are quartets 10,11, 13 and 14 (as well as 7-9). I am less entranced by the early works, but they are not without their merit as well. There may be better individual performances available, such as the Talich Quartet's survey of the late works or some of the pricey single disc releases by the Prazak quartet. But the performances here are very good and as far as complete sets go there's no serious competition.

Overall, the sound seems a bit better in this re-release than in the previous version available on CD. Not much better, but better. And at this price, it is an absolute steal. Highly recommended for lovers of chamber music, or Dvorak in general.

If you only want the last 4 quartets (plus quintet op. 97 and the piano quintet, you should check out the Talich Quartet on Calliope - budget price and excellent sound and performance."

A set that belongs in every chamber music collection!

D. J. Edwards | Cheshire, CT United States | 09/14/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"These quartets of Dvorak deserve the dedicated beautiful performances that the Prague quartet brings to them. The lush sound, the delicacy of delivery and joyful celebration delivered here make this set an example of some of the finest chamber music making available in the cd catalogue. I can imagine no finer committed playing available anywhere. Most of these quartets will be new to just about anybody but the connosieur and they (the quartets) are worthy of having been recorded. It is a gift to revel in these performances; a presence at the intmacy of the soul's finest level. We have here musicians of the highest order.Each member of the quartet plays in perfect harmony with the other. The Prague Quartet gives a stellar performance without every getting getting in each other's way. Kudos to DDG for having made this available at such a reasonable price. Lovers of chamber music need not hesitate to buy and cherish this set. Previous reviewers have said better what I am trying to say but I have said it anyway. This is beautiful music beautifully played that brings the healing and hope that is so badly needed, especially in these times."