Debussy/Ravel: String Quartets

Amazon.com
The Tokyo String Quartet took the chamber music world by storm a couple of decades ago, offering performances of superb discipline allied to real urgency of communication. Their Debussy and Ravel interpretations were part of that initial series of fine recordings which helped to establish their reputation, and having them back at budget price makes them one of the chamber music bargains of the century. It's all part of the strange economics of the classical music business. Now recording for RCA, there's no reason for Sony to keep their Tokyo Quartet discs in the catalogue at full price, particularly if they record the same music again, as often happens. It's a buyer's market out there, so what are you waiting for? --David Hurwitz

Debussy/Ravel: String Quartets,Joseph Schuster,Sadao Harada,Claude Debussy,Gabriel Faure,Maurice Ravel,Roth Trio,Tokyo String Quartet,André Previn,Kazuhide Isomura,Feri Roth,Kikuei Ikeda,Koichiro Harada,Sony,Chamber,Classical,Classical Composers,Classical Music,Quartet for Four String Instruments,Trio for Keyboard and Two String Instruments

Average customer rating: I bought this CD for the Ravel. exciting interpretations

Debussy / Ravel / Stravinsky: String Quartets Claude Debussy , Maurice Ravel , Igor Stravinsky , and Alban Berg Quartet Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Stravinsky | Stravinsky, Igor | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Alban Berg String Quartet | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet Great Recordings Of The Century - Schubert: Winterreise / Hotter, Moore Offenbach: Les Contes d'Hoffmann Vivaldi - Magnificat ~ Gloria / Berganza, Valentini-Terrani, NPO, Muti Schubert - String Quintet in C / Alban Berg Quartet · Schiff ASIN: B00005AVMJ Release Date: 2001-04-10

Tracks:

1. I: Anime Et Tres Decide
2. II: Assez Vif Et Bien Rythme
3. III: Andantino, Doucement Expressif
4. IV: Tres Modere - Tres Mouvenente
5. I: Allegro Moderato - Tres Doux
6. II: Assez Vif - Tres Rythme
7. III: Tres Lent
8. IV: Vif Et Agite
9. No.1
10. No.2
11. No.3
12. Concertino
13. Double Canon (Raoul Dufy In Memoriam)

Customer Reviews:

I bought this CD for the Ravel........2007-01-10

Before deciding to buy this version of the Ravel string quartet, I listened to the samples of tracks #5~8 for comparison against other CDs carrying the same string quartet. In particular, #6(II: Assez Vif - Tres Rythme) was much mellower, unlike the other interpretations which were rather rushed or harsh-sounding. In my opinion this version was done with better poise, and therefore more pleasant to the ear.

exciting interpretations.......2005-04-14

this is wonderfully exciting performances of these tried and tested pieces,actually the one and only Quartets of Debussy and Ravel,strings seem to scare away composers, the same is true of the modern concerto, there is seldom a second one,or none at all,even Stravinsky his string literature brilliant though it is, is marginal to his other more spectacular works, well the ballets are no comparison;
usually the Debussy and Ravel are paired together,and they couldn't be more conceptually far apart,written by really two creators of different temperments and intellectual interests. Debussy at the beginning of his creativity with still pathways to follow,and Ravel well orchestration was his lifeworld,or let us say mining the depths of timbre and reflection on timeless objects as the "melos",the Renaissance like gestures.
The usual emotive traps in this music is to sentimentalize moments,(too-much vibrato,or impassioned phrasings) over-romanticize then their classical,finely woven gestures,turning a mere quartet into some mirror of symphonic sound, or even a short,a trace of the nostalgic,the melancholic turns, transforms this music into odious sap oozzing down the front of a flower,no there must be a foot,a conceptual balance in both worlds,this is music inhabiting the transitions to the modern,yet traditional melodic content,reflection,time inhabiting a symbolic order is still the focus here for both aesthetics.There is no modernist manifestoes yet proclaimed( as with the Surrealists,that Ravel knew) There is exciting texture and colour and the Alban Berg Quartet here are fully aware of these dimensions new departures, this new language of discreet colours as the plucked pizz string as in Ravel's "Assez Vif" breathtaking resonace from a little plucked string, if you heard it alone it would have a short sound piercing yet never sustained unless your ear is right on the string. The Ravel has more treacherous places for "warmth" to reside as in the exposed dark brooding lines for the viola in the third movement of "Tres Lent, here we have simple chords to give the "screens" for melos to occur. The opening itself,"Allegro moderato, Tres Doux" cannot be too too tres "Doux" otherwise again the dignity of the music is lost, here this means at times, the quiet reflection, like gazing out at nature,intropsection; the metaphor is not exhausted, this is music that encourages one to contemplate the fine shapes,and lines ,the complexity of nature, here through the ruff excursis of timbre.
The Debussy Quartet is another matter again the tempi the gestures need to be right on and they are here,many times the powerful opening is too heavy which then trails off into nothing a shimmer of sul ponticello threadbare background materials,while the Violin continues the melos. So balance of sound and gesture is important, and as commonplace as this seems there are many quartets who simple abandon this and go away in hiding for the melodramatic. That has no place in this music.
The Stravinsky string music sounds indeed refreshing after the ponderous Ravel and Debussy,here again we think we've heard all there is of string texture, and timbre,Stravinsky's string music has an open directed sense about it almost always brutal in the strings treatments lots of downbows,and double stops(two tones simultaneously) he (well as a true modernist)prefered the rougher,strident folksy aspects of the strings,this helped to render new content to his own still "diatonic" timbres yet with balanced classic shapes with rhythm being the asymetrical component to subvert the motions forward,the spaces. The "Three Pieces" here are incredible,drifting into the higher registers, plucked mixed with bowed timbres almost continuously,the resonance is exciting,makes the ear listen and you always are aware of the three,four layers occuring.You may know the materials here from other places that I simply forgot,Stravinsky lifted his own music again lifted from somewheres else, twice removed actually, but he did it with a real sense of transforming improving the original,not unlike the use of assemblage,collage of Picasso, who used newspapers for backdrops to his paintings or shrds fragments from hotel registry,matchbooks,pipe tobacco;for Stravinsky he worked at his music similarly cutting out strips of manuscript of single lines to be assembled later,or stuck on the wall with a pin through it for contemplation;many of the original melody lifted was languishing someplace anyways, never to see the light of day.
The "Concertino" seems more gratuitous in its gestures, lots of "noises" going nowheres,yet still exciting to listen. Raoul Dufy was a Fauvist painter who died in 1953,Stravinsky captures the finely gentle light lyricism of his paintings and illustrations.Yet there is a somber sense here not abandoned for his lost. This Quartet does good work.Wonderfully balanced disk.

Average customer rating: Apex says it all ! Worthy Performance of Debussy

Debussy & Ravel: String Quartets Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: String Quartets by Debussy and Ravel/Claude Debussy: Quartet in G Minor, Op. 10/Maurice Ravel: Quartet in F Major ASIN: B00005MOA8 Release Date: 2006-05-24

Tracks:

1. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: Anime Et Tres Decide
2. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: Assez Vif Et Bien Rythme
3. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: Andantino Doucement Expressif
4. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: Tres Modere
5. String Quartet In F Major: Allegro Moderato, Tres Doux
6. String Quartet In F Major: Assez Vif. Tres Rythme
7. String Quartet In F Major: Tres Lent
8. String Quartet In F Major: Vif Et Agite

Customer Reviews:

Apex says it all !.......2003-12-27

These two works, I feel, constitute the most musically enchanting impressionistic tone paintings of the chamber repertoire I have ever heard. At one moment, you are caught up in the most exotic of dance rhythms. At another, you are enveloped by the sweetest, most songful sense of longing. But there's also mystery, playfulness, eloquence, sadness and anxiety. These things are all part of the collages these two French masters of sensuousness bring straight to the spirit, often with a compelling intensity.

Previously, I conveyed my views on a cluster of performances of these pieces by some of the finest chamber ensembles. In particular, I cited the outstanding effort of the Emerson Quartet. Now, I must offer praise for a group that, in my estimation, outdoes the Emerson on musical if not technical grounds---the Keller Quartet, on the lesser known Apex label. Listening to excerpts from the Keller's presentations whetted my appetite for hearing all they had to say about these pieces. I purchased their cd and then found myself swept away on a completely spellbinding adventure. Succintly put, no other group I have heard so effectively portrays and conveys musically all I have mentioned above in association with these two compositions. Absolutely wonderful !

Worthy Performance of Debussy.......2003-12-21

I was hesitant, at first, in purchasing this recording: At $9 - who wouldn't be skeptical. But let me be the first to assure you these recordings of some of the most renowed literature in the chamber medium are at excellent quality for such a bargain price. The Debussy is exceptional - I have never heard it played with so much expression before. There are moments of supreme virtuosity balanced equally with lucid sound. And although - it isn't at Emerson statue (yet) the emotional output far exceeds that pedagogue - that Emerson. My only complaint is that at times - in piano sections - the first violin tends to play inaudibly while it has the melody. The Ravel is phenominal - I can almost picture a 1920's atmosphere - the kind that it paints fo rthe listener - the industrial world of the sound of daily hum drum. Especially that jazzy episode inteh first violin abuot 2 minutes into the first mov. Wonderful music - winderful pathos!

Average customer rating: Hidden Treasure Deeply Beautiful A SUPERB RECITAL

Debussy, Ravel: String Quartets Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Janácek: String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2 Brahms: Complete Piano Quartets ASIN: B0000013NC Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

1. String Quartet No.1 in G Minor Op.10: Anime et tres decide
2. String Quartet No.1 in G Minor Op.10: Assez vif et bien rythme
3. String Quartet No.1 in G Minor Op.10: Andantino doucement expressif
4. String Quartet No.1 in G Minor Op.10: Tres modere
5. String Quartet In F: Allegro moderato. Tres doux
6. String Quartet In F: Assez vif. Tres rythme
7. String Quartet In F: Tres lent
8. String Quartet In F: Vif et agite
9. String Quartet In F: Ravel: Introduction & Allegro for Harp,Flute,Clarinet & String Quartet

Customer Reviews:

Hidden Treasure.......2005-03-25

Coming as I do from the early music scene, listening to Debussy and Ravel was something of a shock when I first attempted it, and that explains why I originally chose the title "Difficult Music" for this review. However, after further listenings, I decided to change this to "Hidden Treasure": this CD contains some really fascinating music - very different in style from earlier chamber music, yes, but full of fascinating effects and with the remarkable quality of "growing on you", i. e. sounding more logical and, partly at least, more beautiful the longer you listen. Although I still slightly prefer the Emerson Quartet, the Kodaly Quartet on Naxos really do a fine job here, it probably being more the engineering than the playing that makes me prefer Deutsche Gramophon's offering. The "encore" of the Introduction and Allegro for Flute, Clarinet and Harp is quite an amazing piece of music with some delicate harmonies that really send chills of delight down my back, so to speak: the Naxos disc is definitely worth purchasing for this piece alone! (This addition to the original review was added on 22 April 2007, I will leave the original text as it stands as a testimony to the fact that it takes time to come to appreciate this music.)

The string quartets by Debussy and Ravel (each composer wrote only one) were penned in 1893 and 1902 respectively and are by far the most difficult music that Naxos produced in its early years (this CD was recorded in December 1988), for even after listening to this many times it is still not easy to perceive anything like melody. Debussys quartet is often characterized as an immature work based on traditional structures, but for me it is the sheer modernity of the work that hits me again and again, with the juxtaposition of modes and shifting variations of themes taking obvious priority over anything vaguely resembling tunefulness. Ravels quartet is known to have been written under the influence of Debussy's, but is a little easier to listen to, although there is certainly nothing here that would inspire anyone to hum along! After repeated listenings, I found myself enjoying above all the rhythmic structures, but these are far more potently captured in the 1986 recording by the Emerson String Quartet, which has a grace and brilliance which the Hungarian Kodály Quartet cannot match and the advantage of Deutsche Grammophons superior sound. Debussy, Ravel: Streichquartette The Naxos CD is no doubt good, deserving its three-star rating in the Penguin Good CD Guide, but if price is no object, the Emerson recording is, to my mind, unbeatable.

Where the Naxos scores as over against the yellow label is the inclusion of Ravels Introduction and Allegro for Harp, Flute, Clarinet and String Quartet, a piece which I had never heard before I bought this CD but which deserves to be heard more often. Apart from the fascinating harp passages, this music seems to be based on the rather unusual sound combination of flute and clarinet and will reward repeated listenings.

Deeply Beautiful.......2002-07-11

Although this is the first Debussy/Ravel quartet CD I've owned, it's not the first I've heard- the others being from the Julliard and Tokyo quartets. This is on the level of Tokyo's playing but three things make this, the Kodaly recording superior. First and most obvious, this one is less expensive. Second, the Kodaly quartet handles the music with more delicate gloves than does Tokyo. Third, the Intro and Allegro for Harp, Flute, Clarinet and Quartet serves as a great end-piece here. (the solo harp section is so pretty that the first time I heard this, I played and rewound 7 times.)

These quartets are deeply beautiful, the recording is great, and the playing is replete with the alternating jumpiness/lament moods so fitting with this music. At some point, I will likely buy other recordings of the quartets, but this will be the standard I measure them by.

A SUPERB RECITAL.......2001-02-01

This is one of the most atmospheric, poetic performances I've heard in a long time, bar none. Tempi are judged just right, as in the opening "Anime" of Debussy's Op. 10, where the Kodalys rather slide right in and grab you, or the gorgeous "Tres lent," from Ravel's Quartet in F, that becomes almost spiritual. There is no spotlighting or highlighting of the impressionistic elements that run through these works; instead there is a nexus, a convergence. The Kodalys opt to infuse a wealth of humanity, a pinch of delicious angst, and a whole lot of sheer verve that, in the end, adds a unity and presence to music we only thought we knew. Hearing the Kodaly Quartet play these works is like listening afresh. As well, they are extremely fine instrumentalists, gifted with impeccable intonation, keen sensitivity, and an inspired committal to the music. Through them, these quartets sigh, lament, breathe, dance. [The Naxos engineers have given the Kodalys an intimate sound picture to match their artistic conception, as well.]

The addition of Ravel's Introduction and Allegro for Harp, Flute, Clarinet and String Quartet complements this already superb bargain.

[Running time: 62:31]

Average customer rating: Excellent performance of Standard with surprise Delight! A really good recording of three great French quartets

Debussy, Ravel, Dutilleux: String Quartets / Juilliard SQ Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dutilleux | Dutilleux, Henri | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music ASIN: B0000028MV Release Date: 1993-12-14

Tracks:

1. Debussy String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: I
2. Debussy String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: II
3. Debussy String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: III
4. Debussy String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: IV
5. Ravel String Quartet In F Major: I
6. Ravel String Quartet In F Major: II
7. Ravel String Quartet In F Major: III
8. Ravel String Quartet In F Major: IV
9. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': Ainsi La Nuit
10. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': I. Nocturne
11. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': Parenthese 1
12. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': II. Miroir D'espace
13. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': Parenthese 2
14. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': III. Litanies
15. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': Parenthese 3
16. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': IV. Litanies 2
17. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': Parenthese 4
18. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': V. Constellations
19. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': VI. Nocturne 2
20. Dutilleux String Quartet 'Ainsi La Nuit': VII. Temps Suspendu

Amazon.com essential recording

This enterprising disc contains three fine French string quartets. To the ubiquitous coupling of the Debussy and Ravel, the Juilliard adds the sole string quartet by France's greatest living composer, Henri Dutilleux. All three works are superbly performed, and while the Dutilleux is difficult (but very good) music, most recordings of the Debussy and Ravel offer no coupling at all. Long known for their expertise in contemporary music, the Juilliard players get regal treatment on this disc, which really shows off their technical and interpretive excellence in every respect. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Excellent performance of Standard with surprise Delight!.......2002-12-21

This is an excellent album both because it has some of the best recordings of the Ravel and Debussy String Quartets. While this is a standard coupling what is unusually is the added younger Dutilleux String Quartet.

The Dutilleux is a really complex beautiful work (not unlike the other two more well known quartets on this album). To me it is kind of contrast to the Ravel and Debussy because to me Dutilleux implies more of the "Les Six" attitudes and styles then it does the impressionisms of the Ravel and Debussy. Still I think it fits very nicely to show how where French music had went from the early 20th century to the later part.

Not to be Left out the Ravel and Debussy are amazing accounts. I especially like the complex harmonies of the well known opening. I would highly recommend this disk.

A really good recording of three great French quartets.......2000-06-14

The Julliard String Quartet is known for its brilliant playing with just about anything, but they really shine in this recording. I bought this mainly for the Ravel string quartet, which is a little underplayed but really good, but the Dubussy and the Dutilleux quartets are superb as well. Definitely worth buying.

Average customer rating: Best Faure Trio! Energetic and sublime performances Time to relax Great Performance, Great Value

Debussy/Ravel: String Quartets Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music ASIN: B0000029QH Release Date: 1996-04-16

Tracks:

1. String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: Anime et tres decide
2. String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: II. Assez vif et bien rythme
3. String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: III. Andantino, doucement expressif
4. String Quartet In G Minor, Op. 10: IV. Tres modere
5. String Quartet In F Major: I. Allegro moderato. Tres doux
6. String Quartet In F Major: II. Assez vif, tres rythme
7. String Quartet In F Major: III. Tres lent
8. String Quartet In F Major: IV. Vif et agite
9. Trio For Piano, Violin And Violoncello In D Minor, Op. 120: I. Allegro, ma non troppo
10. Trio For Piano, Violin And Violoncello In D Minor, Op. 120: II. Andantino
11. Trio For Piano, Violin And Violoncello In D Minor, Op. 120: III. Allegro vivo

Amazon.com

The Tokyo String Quartet took the chamber music world by storm a couple of decades ago, offering performances of superb discipline allied to real urgency of communication. Their Debussy and Ravel interpretations were part of that initial series of fine recordings which helped to establish their reputation, and having them back at budget price makes them one of the chamber music bargains of the century. It's all part of the strange economics of the classical music business. Now recording for RCA, there's no reason for Sony to keep their Tokyo Quartet discs in the catalogue at full price, particularly if they record the same music again, as often happens. It's a buyer's market out there, so what are you waiting for? --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Best Faure Trio!.......2006-04-23

I bought this CD for the Faure Trio and am very happy I did. It is simply one of the best performances I've ever heard in capturing so much of the world of late-Faure. Its a work which is contemporaneous with the great op. 121 string quartet yet which, to my ears, has never sounded as profound. The cello part with Joseph Schuster playing could not be played more beautifully. Feri Roth and Andre Previn also play with tenderness and passion. Buy this one!!!

Energetic and sublime performances.......2006-02-22

Curiously enough, the great 19th-century French composers (Debussy, Faure, Franck, Chausson, Ravel) only composed one string quartet each. But, what fabulous works they are! The Tokyo String Quartet's performance of the Ravel and Debussy quartet are definately above-average and fully satisfying for their passionate energy, nuance of sonorities and sublimity. The second movement of the Ravel is quite famous for its uniquely rhythmic pizzacato which the Tokyo members play most energetically. Yet, in the very next movement, they bring a tremendous etherealness and delicate textures to the music. The presto final movement brims with power and passion in the Tokyo Quartet's hands. Ditto that for the Debussy work which is yet another landmark Debussy composition for its equisite subtleness. The third movement is one of those Debussy dreamy journeys into never-never land that the Tokyo Quartet play most delectably. They are particular skilled at building the drama within each movement with a vast range of colors and expressiveness.

The Faure Piano Trio is a late work by this gentile composer and is a most varied and magnificant composition that is so Faure. However, this recording suffers a bit from an inferior recorded sound that lacks color and complex timbres. You can hear the change in sound from the Ravel piece to the Faure trio. The piano sounds somewhat 'tinny' as well. The string playing is very compentant but not masterful by any means. For this Faure trio, to be prefered for both sound quality and finnesse of playing are the gorgeous recordings from the Florestan Trio (Hyperion) and Gil Shaham with Brinton Smith and Akira Eguchi (Vanguard Classics). But, if you have not heard these others Faure recordings, then this Sony recording from the Roth Trio should do just fine as the composition is so magnificant. All together, these three 'French Romantic' works are some of the creme of the era and make this a most desirable disc. 5 stars for the Debussy and Ravel but 4 stars for the Faure.

One final tidbit: The Tokyo String Quartet is notable for playing the famed "Paganini Set" of four Stradivarius instruments which is the only such complete set of two violins, viola and cello by the great Antonio Stradivari in existance. Unfortunately, this recording does not utilize these instruments as they acquired the use of the Paganini set around 1995. But, their newer recordings are played on these magnificant instruments for those who are passionate about such rare instruments.

Time to relax.......2003-01-28

I listen to a lot of electronica and (its flipside) thrash metal. But when I need to relax, not even the most downtempo minimalist electrobeats can soothe the beast - that's where Ravel comes in. His work is simply awesome.

Great Performance, Great Value.......2001-01-02

The coupling of Debussy's and Ravel's string quartets is inevitable -- the two composers were contemporaries, they each composed only one string quartet, which happened to sound similar, and the length of the works perfectly accommodates the time limitations of both LPs and now CDs. In fact, three of the world's most popular and critically acclaimed string quartets -- Emerson, Juilliard and Tokyo -- have all made classic albums of this coupling. What led me to choose this CD over the other two was simple -- price. I knew I'd be getting a memorable, if not perfect, performance with any of the three offerings. (In fact, the Juilliard performance advertises itself as one of the 100 greatest classical performances of all-time.) But with this CD available at less than half the cost of the other two, it was a no-brainer for me. Throw in a gorgeous performance of the rarely recorded Faure Piano Trio (performed by Andre Previn, Feri Roth and Joseph Schuster), and this "Sony Essential Classic" lives up to its title.

Average customer rating:

String Quartets by Ravel, Debussy & Schumann Manufacturer: Opus Kura ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music ASIN: B000E8QV2E Release Date: 2006-02-28

Average customer rating: A top choice in these two quartets, with highly personal music-making

Debussy & Ravel: String Quartets (Italian Quartet) [IMPORT] Quartetto Italiano , Claude Debussy , Maurice Ravel , 1st violin; Elisa Pegreffi, 2nd violin Italian Quartet: Paolo Borciani , and viola; Franco Rossi, cello Piero Farulli Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Classical | Styles | Music ASIN: B000060MDS Release Date: 2002-01-28

Tracks:

1. Anime Et Tres Decide
2. Scherzo
3. Andantino Doucement Expressif
4. Tres Modere
5. Allegro Moderato. Tres Doux
6. Assez Vif. Tres Rythme
7. Tres Lent
8. Vif Et Agite

Customer Reviews:

A top choice in these two quartets, with highly personal music-making.......2006-08-17

Pairing Debussy and Ravel in their only string quartets is a cliche by now, and buyers have a wide range of choice. In terms of sheer virtuosity, no one has excelled the Alban Berg Qt., (EMI), who play with seamless technique and gleaming tone. but it all osunds a bit too efficient and impersonal. There's more atmosphere in the version by the Tokyo Qt., among others.

I listened to half a dozen recordings before settling on this one form the Quartetto Italiano. (they were together for so long that you can get a historic mono recording of the smae music on EMI). The Quartetto doesn't try to sound airy, diaphanous, or particularly French. Instead, they give a presonal, uniquely phrased version that sounds as if each player is esponding from deep feelings about the music. That's rare in performances of Debussy and Ravel, where the syle is more or less locked in. the miking is quite close, and although they lack the sheen of the Bertg Qt, the Quartetto Italiano deserves their reputaiton for making beautiful sounds.

Average customer rating: famous, & justly so Examples of french composers writing in a german ensemble A very personal reading of these oft-recorded quartets

Debussy & Ravel: String Quartets Claude Debussy , Maurice Ravel , and Quartetto Italiano Manufacturer: Polygram Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Piano Quintet Op 34 Beethoven: Complete String Quartets Mozart: Clarinet Quintet, etc / Academy Chamber Ensemble Brahms: The Complete Quintets The Sofia Recital 1958 ASIN: B000051YDA Release Date: 2002-01-15

Tracks:

1. String Quartet In G Minor: I. Anime Et Tres Decide
2. String Quartet In G Minor: II. Assez Vif Et Bien Rythme
3. String Quartet In G Minor: III. Andantino, Doucement Expressif
4. String Quartet In G Minor: IV. Tres Modere - Tres Mouvemente Et Avec Passion
5. String Quartet In F Major: I. Allegro Moderato. Tres Doux
6. String Quartet In F Major: II. Assez Vif. Tres Rythme
7. String Quartet In F Major: III. Tres Lent
8. String Quartet In F Major: IV. Vif Et Agite

Customer Reviews:

famous, & justly so.......2007-07-15

The Julliard Quartet's readings of these famous quartets from the early days of stereo were reference recordings for decades. I owned them on vinyl for more than 30 years & never thought to make a change until the advent of cd, when I opted for the Guarneri Quartet's coupling. I was never really satisfied with the Guarneri's romantically-inclined approach, so a while back I bought the Vlach Quartet's disc, recorded in 1959 & still available on Supraphon. As it turns out, I wasn't very happy with their readings either (just not atmospheric enough) so I went shopping again & decided to purchase this Quartetto Italiano recording which has been around for over 40 years.

From the opening bars, Quartetto Italiano distinguishes themselves as eminent interpretors of Debussy. Their phrasing emphasizes the oceanic swell of this music in a completely convincing way - listening to the samples, even though brief, will give you an idea of what I mean. The Ravel quartet also receives an outstanding treatment: atmospheric, rythmically secure & supple.

The sound is quite up front & while some may think the close miking is a little harsh (the Classics Today reviewer, to be specific, thinks so), I find it very appealing.

Very highly recommended!

Examples of french composers writing in a german ensemble.......2007-05-30

The Quartets of Debussy and Ravel are the most interesting french quartets.The work of Debussy is one exception in the composer production.Maybe here we have the only german structure this composer folowed.Maybe, the first movement is the only Sonata form we can find in all his production.The second movement is one scherzo, rare in the production of this composer.This quartet,that I love, is a very good work , but is one exception for Debussy.Ravel was more classic, and the F major quartet is more tipical of the composer.
This recording was made in 1965, and it is fantastic.The sonorities are very special, and if I love the way the LaSalle , The Tokio and the Parrenin plays these music, the Quartetto Italiano is by far my favourite.

A very personal reading of these oft-recorded quartets.......2006-08-17

Pairing Debussy and Ravel in their only string quartets is a cliche by now, and buyers have a wide range of choice. In terms of sheer virtuosity, no one has excelled the Alban Berg Qt., (EMI), who play with seamless technique and gleaming tone. but it all osunds a bit too efficient and impersonal. There's more atmosphere in the version by the Tokyo Qt., among others.

I listened to half a dozen recordings before settling on this one from the Quartetto Italiano (they were together for so long that you can get their historic mono recording of the smae music on EMI). The Quartetto doesn't try to sound airy, diaphanous, or particularly French. Instead, they give a presonal, uniquely phrased version that sounds as if each player is responding from deep feelings about the music. That's rare in performances of Debussy and Ravel, where the syle is more or less locked in. The miking is quite close, and although they lack the sheen of the Bertg Qt, the Quartetto Italiano deserve their reputaiton for making beautiful sounds.

Average customer rating:

String Quartets Debussy , Ravel , and Ludwig Manufacturer: Arcobaleno ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music ASIN: B00005A88U Release Date: 2000-08-08

Tracks:

1. Str Qt, Op.10: Anime Et Tres Decide
2. Str Qt, Op.10: Assez Vif Et Bien Rythme
3. Str Qt, Op.10: Andantino, Doucement Expressif
4. Str Qt, Op.10: Tres Modere - Tres Mouvemente Et Avec Passion
5. St Qt: Allegro Moderato - Tres Doux
6. St Qt: Assez Vif - Tres Rythme
7. St Qt: Tres Lent
8. St Qt: Vif Et Agite

Average customer rating: YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE FRENCH

Debussy & Ravel: String Quartets Claude Debussy , Maurice Ravel , and Borodin Quartet Manufacturer: Chandos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sibelius: Complete String Quartets Dvorák: Piano Quintets, Opp. 5 & 81 Shostakovich: String Quartets 1-13 Bach: Sonatas for Cello & Piano Brahms: Complete String Quartets, Quintets & Sextets ASIN: B000063BIB Release Date: 2002-04-23

Tracks:

1. String Quartet: I. Allegro Moderato, Tres Doux
2. String Quartet In F Major: II. Assez Vif, Tres Rythme
3. String Quartet In F Major: III. Tres Lent
4. String Quartet In F Major: IV. Vif Et Agite
5. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: I. Anime Et Tres Decide
6. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: II. Assez Vif Et Bien Rythme
7. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: III. Andantino, Doucement Expressif
8. String Quartet In G Minor, Op.10: IV. Tres Modere - Tres Anime

Customer Reviews:

YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE FRENCH.......2005-02-13

The Borodins are a byword for quality in everything they do, and they have a habit of getting good recordings in addition. It is all here again, just like in the recordings of Shostakovich and of the eponymous Borodin that I already know from them. The playing has the familiar confidence, strength of characterisation, depth and quality of tone, unfailing stylistic grasp and unerring surefootedness that I am coming to know. The recording is first-rate again too, with depth and resonance at no cost to clarity. To hear just how good it can be, try the pizzicato chords at the start of the second movement of Debussy's quartet.

Tempi should give nobody any problem. They are very close indeed to those taken by the Parrenin quartet in a recording I have known and loved down the years but which seems not to be in the current catalogues, the most significant divergence being in the slow movement of the Ravel, taken much more slowly by the Borodins, and with great solemnity and effectiveness.

Both of these quartets are comparatively early works by their respective authors, but both, (Ravel's particularly), are accomplished and already characteristic. Accustomed as I am to the Parrenins I would not say that I find these accounts the last word in some elusive 'Frenchness', but that is not something that exercises me in the slightest. Composers and compositions of this stature transcend nationality, and this disc can be recommended without hesitation to lovers of the works and newcomers alike.

Music Review:

1. Dinner Music [Box set]
2. Dinner Party
3. Dvorak: Slavonic Dances for 4-hand piano
4. Elgar: Serenade Op20; Britten: Variations on Theme by Frank Bridge Op10
5. Escape to Serenity
6. Essential Classics: Borodin - Symphonies Nos.1-3/Overture and Polovtsian Dances
7. Eternal Russia
8. Famous Violin Miniatures
9. Franck: Organ Works
10. Godár: Concerto grosso; Partita

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