Search - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Griller String Quartet :: The Griller Quartet Play Mozart Quintets

One of the one hundred best recordings of the last century!

Hiram Gomez Pardo | Valencia, Venezuela | 06/29/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Griller Quartet was the most prominent British chamber ensemble of the first half of the century. From 1928 to 1962 (with the tragic death of Philip Burton, viola) this ensemble honored with radiant splendor the universe of the chamber music.



After an eagerly awaited set of records, Dutton laboratories has made an invaluable contribution for the preservation of these musical treasures and we actual listeners may fortunately get.



The String Quartet K. 465 widely known as "dissonant" is played with conciseness, éclat and committed conviction. Unlike approach given by the Budapest Quartet sound a bit romantic , The Griller combines presence, elegance and tonal contrasts, leaving aside any sort of free concessions letting to listen us these admirable details nestled beneath the score.



As a matter of fact, (we may realize the timings are visibly slower than the Budapest, for instance). The way they display the Allegro after the introspective initial adagio and the inspiring Andante cantabile, make of this version a true reference pattern.



Many people regard the String quintet K. 516 is the masterpiece of Mozart's chamber works. Although my personal choice would be the K. 563, this chamber work is without hesitation the best chamber work of this genre (sharing honors with the unerring Schubert's Quintet K. 163). From start to finish, the Griller achieved unsurpassed levels of interpretation keeping the elusive mystery and the infinite reflexive sadness of this lovable Adagio ma non troppo. The unforgettable Max Gilbert was the second viola in this historical performance. This work is the jewel of the crown of this peerless album.



And finally we have another master jewel. Dennis Brain (the most extraordinary soloist of this instrument ever born) gives an astonishing performance, filled of brightness, sumptuous expression and sheer touch of class.



I still wonder why this record had not been received and deserved its real value. This jewel must be part of your invaluable collection. Don't let pass this singular opportunity to begin the total collection of this formidable and towering chamber ensemble.

"