Search - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Schubert, Amadeus Quartet :: Mozart: Sinfonia Concertante For Violin And Viola, K. 364; Schubert: String Quartet D. 956 / Brainin, Schidlof, Pleeth, et al

The Amadeus Quartet's special affinity for the Viennese classics shows clearly in the idiomatic lilt and heartfelt expressiveness of their first recording of the Schubert Quintet, made only a few years after the group was formed. Leisurely, expansive, simple, with just the right liberties and inflections, the playing is technically perfect, warm, dreamy, intense, dramatic; every line stands out, the sound is incredibly beautiful and homogeneous; the violist holds the balance between the pairs of high and low voices with tensile strength. The Mozart, too, is the earliest recording by the Quartet's leader and violist; it captures them at their most youthful, exuberant, and spontaneously expressive. Playing with, to, and off each other, they build a unified dynamic and emotional structure and yet preserve their individual style: Brainin's is more lyrical, Schidlof's more urgent. The first movement is quite brisk, the cadenza very free, the second is a heart-breaking lament, the finale a carefree, brilliant romp. Their collaboration with the orchestra is relaxed and comfortable. --Edith Eisler