"From the exuberant first measures to the celebratory finale, the quartet flies to new heights of joy. The Guarneri demonstrates once more their technical excellence and intelligent interpretation and, doubtless, the close communication that results from their long collaboration. The octet, performed with the Orion quartet, is exciting and fulfilling; each voice is heard and the interplay is stimulating. Highly recommended."
Great sound, but...
Homiski | 08/31/2000
(3 out of 5 stars)
"I must say the Guarneri Quartet continues to blow me away I hear them. For that reason this recording of Mendelssohn's 3rd Quartet sizzles. Maybe part of it is due to the fabled power of the Guarneri's instruments, but the string attacks and blend they get as a group are amazing! The disappointment for me comes from the Octet- (started by the precocious Mendelssohn at age 15). If i had not heard the Cleveland Quartet Recording first, I probably would rate this one higher, but there is a lack of nuance and tempi in certain places which the Guarneri roll over. I realize these are subjective and personal interpretations, but when you hear a recording of the Octet which brings you to a certain emotional height, other recordings seem to disappoint. The Guarneri recording gets a thumbs up for programming it w/ the 3rd Quartet, but if you want to hear BOTH of Mendelssohn's Octets get the Cleveland Quartet recording!"
Happy, happy music
Homiski | 12/03/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Music to make you dance for sheer joy. The performances are out of this world."
Excellent performances
Santiago Barcon | Mexico city | 05/18/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have heard this record 3 times, twice on the same day.The octet is a great work and shows the genius of Mendelssohn. Performance is excellentI heard on tuesday the Orion Strin Quartet in NYC performing the Beethoven string quartets. The recording makes justice to their abilityHighly recomended"
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1