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String Quartets Op. 18/3, Op. 18/5 & Op. 135
Classical · 2011

String Quartets Op. 18/3, Op. 18/5 & Op. 135

Ludwig van Beethoven

This album presents a compelling journey through Beethoven's string quartet oeuvre, pairing the youthful brilliance of his Op. 18 quartets with the profound introspection of his final quartet, Op. 135

May 16, 2011 · Virgin Classics

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Immerse yourself in the intricate world of Beethoven's string quartets, brought to life with exquisite clarity and emotional depth. This album is a dialogue between the composer's early classical elegance and his late-period philosophical intensity, performed with a precision that makes every note resonate. It's music for deep listening, for moments of quiet contemplation, or for enriching a sophisticated atmosphere. Critics from AllMusic and BBC Music have praised recordings of these works for their insightful interpretations and pristine sound, making this a definitive listening experience for classical aficionados and new listeners alike.

Moments Worth Listening For
The vivacious, almost conversational opening of Op. 18 No. 3, setting a tone of youthful brilliance and intricate counterpoint.
The serene yet deeply felt Andante cantabile e grazioso movement from Op. 18 No. 5, a testament to Beethoven's melodic grace in his early period.
The stark emotional shifts within Op. 135, particularly the Lento assai, cantante e tranquillo, which offers a moment of profound, almost spiritual calm.
The famous 'Muss es sein?' (Must it be?) motif in the final movement of Op. 135, followed by its resolute 'Es muss sein!' (It must be!) answer, encapsulating a philosophical struggle and triumph.
Reviews
AllMusic
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BBC Music
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Where This Album DepartsEach spoke is a trait. The orange shape shows where this album pulls away from — or holds to — the rest of the artist’s catalogue. Tap for more.

How does String Quartets Op. 18/3, Op. 18/5 & Op. 135 sound next to the rest of Ludwig van Beethoven's catalogue?

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The production is built around hand played than this artist usually allows.

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