Search - Franz Schubert, Emerson String Quartet, Mstislav Rostropovich :: Schubert: The Late String Quartets; String Quintet

FULL APPRECIATION

GEORGE RANNIE | DENVER, COLORADO United States | 03/20/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Until this bargain priced recording on three discs of the Emerson Quartet playing Schubert`s last four string quartets (included also is the String Quintet in C major, D956 featuring Rostropovich on cello), down through the years, I really did not have too much of an appreciation for Schubert's Quartets # 12, 13, 14, 15. For some reason their beauty eluded me. Now, with this recording, I love the works especially the #15 in G major. It is indeed filled with drama, pathos and great beauty. I don't think I can blame this "new found" appreciation on any maturation on my part. I really believe, it's soley due to the exquisite playing of the Emerson Quartet. They really play these works not like they are "walking on eggshells" but with vigor, passion and beauty. Also, I'm sure, that the wonderful recorded sound helped in my appreciation too.



I plan on seeking out more Schubert performed by the Emerson Quartet--they are so very good!!

"

Emerson are very good....

Henry Kaspar | Washington DC, USA | 08/10/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

".... and giving them anything less than a "five" for these recordings would be a mistake. This said, my personal favorite for the late Schubert quartets and his incredible quintet remains the Alban Berg quartet's classical recording -- the purity of Alban Berg's interpretation and their unpretentious, direct approach remains to me the essence of playing Schubert."

Schubert -- with passion

A. Kass | Staten Island, NY United States | 08/25/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have known the Emersons for a long time -- they are great people, and amazing musicians. Here their balanced, interweaving tones and emotional depth fully realize Schubert's wonderful pieces. Listen for Gene Drucker's singing tone at first violin counterpointed with Phil Setzer's diamond-sharp attack. Listen and savor the definitive recording of these works."