Title : Schubert: String Quintet in C, D. 956
Author : Franz Schubert
Release Date : 19920811
Binding : Audio CD
Regular Price : $16.98
Amazon.com Price : $13.83
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Editorial Reviews : When not composing songs, Franz Schubert was most at home with chamber music, not because he was a miniaturist, but because his most profound thoughts were most readily contained by smaller, more concentrated ensembles. His Quintet in C--by far the great work ever written for a string quartet with an extra cello--shows him at his summit with an ethereal second movement that often communicates the sense of spiritual suspended animation that the minimalists strive for but don't often achieve. The Emerson Quartet might seem a bit edgy for this assignment, but instead, the quartet delivers one of the best recordings of its career. Instead of just being swept away by its rapturous lyricism, the quartet probes the emotional depths and meaning of the music's gestures in concentrated, deeply felt performances. The piece is clearly a particular favorite of guest cellist Mstislav Rostropovich (he has recorded it several times before), but like most good chamber players, his presence isn't heard so much as it's felt. Perhaps he is responsible for the particular warmth of this performance. --David Patrick Stearns
Buyer Reviews : This disc must rank amongst the finest recordings of chamber music in the catalogue. Schubert's incredible masterwork (surprisingly unknown by non-music lovers), played to brilliant effect, with excellent quality sound. As has been stated by other reviewers, and has been known by music lovers since this music was composed, this music is worthy of being called 'sublime.' All four movements are superior, and as a whole, they form an enlightening musical experience.
Rostropovich, a true cello legend (some say, one of the two or three greatest ever recorded), has partnered here with the Emersons to great success. A true joy of music making can be felt among these 5 musicians, to the delight of the listener. Whether its the serene beauty of the 2nd movement, or the rhythmic drive of the 3rd movement, there are countless moments to treasure here. DG captures the sound of the efforts here in rich, full bodied, all-digital fashion. It should be stated that the disc has no couplings, and is rather short for its price -- but the quality here is of the highest caliber.
This work is amply represented by the catalogue, and though there are many excellent ones (Alban Berg Quartet, etc.), this recording is my personal favorite. Rostropovich's golden sound accompanies the Emerson's in alluring fashion. This is one of my desert island selections.
