Track Listing

1. Animé et très decidé
2. Assez vif et bien rythmé
3. Andantino, doucement espressif
4. Très modéré - Très mouvemente
5. I. Allegro Moderato. Tres Doux
6. II. Assez Vif. Tres Rythme
7. III. Tres Lent
8. IV. Vif Et Agite

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #17486 in Music
• Released on: 1995-09-19
• Number of discs: 1

Customer Reviews

The Cream of a Very Good Crop !
For me, these readings by the Emerson Quartet constitute one of the finest available couplings of these two staples of the string quartet repertoire. Listening to other highly touted versions by the Julliard, Guarneri, Tokyo, Cleveland and Kodaly Quartets, I feel the Guarneri (on the Surroundedby Entertainment 1004 label) seems to enjoy the richest and best recorded sound, and I would place their characterful interpretation in the second spot among these other ensembles. The Cleveland is not among the best recorded. At times the strings sound relatively thin; moreover, I consider their view of these two very personal works to be a little superficial in comparison with the others. The Kodaly on Naxos gives a good interpretation but is somewhat outclassed here. Both the Julliard and Tokyo Quartets provide finely crafted versions, however I'm not particularly enamored with the manner in which they render certain phrases. Obviously, since we're dealing strongly with matters of taste, others might respond differently. Notwithstanding, the Emerson Quartet's performances not only display a superb level of technical execution but also paint a marvelous canvas of vivid tonal colors and impressive dynamic contrasts. There just seems to be a sense of freedom and spontaneity here the other groups don't match. The overall effect is cathartic. For another outstanding combo of these two pieces, try the Keller Quartet on the Apex label. I would not be surprised if you considered its performances to be even more musical than the Emerson's.

Irreproachable elegance and refinement.
The Debussy and Ravel string quartets stand--along with some of Faure and Franck's chamber music--among the most elegant, refined pieces of music ever written: the perfect accompaniment for tea, madeleines and the remembrance of things past. It is hard to imagine anyone playing this music better than the Emerson String Quartet, and the mid-line price of this CD makes it doubly attractive.

this is THE one!
These two glorious works of French chamber music, both from early on in their composer's careers are made to go together. The sometimes gruff and gnarly Debussy Quartet is a perfect foil to the serenity and Gallic elegance of the Ravel.

I never thought I would hear a recording that would replace the Philips performance of the Quartetto Italiano in my affections, but this one by the Emerson Quartet is it. Splendidly played, beautifully recorded, it is just about beyond reproach. Definitely recommended for anyone who loves great quartet playing, French music, or just music of beauty and substance.