GOLDEN OLDIES – BRODSKY QUARTET

The Brodsky Quartet celebrated its remarkable 50th anniversary with “Golden Oldies,” a delightful CD featuring a selection of encore-style pieces specially arranged by the quartet members themselves. This release showcases the quartet’s enduring passion and creativity, delivering a captivating journey through a diverse repertoire.

From the very first notes, “Golden Oldies” exudes a sense of charm and affection. The opening piece, Scott Joplin’s “Solace,” arranged for string quartet by the quartet’s cellist Jacqueline Thomas when she was just 13, sets the tone perfectly. The quartet delivers the piece with a beguiling allure, displaying the impeccable chemistry that has been honed over five decades of making music together.

Adding to the enchanting atmosphere, Thomas offers quartet versions of two movements from Shostakovich’s “Five Pieces for Two Violins and Piano.” The second movement, performed with lightly worn wit and gracefulness, showcases the quartet’s profound understanding of the composer’s idiosyncratic style.

Violist Paul Cassidy shines as he places his wife, Jacqueline Thomas, in the spotlight with his elegant arrangement of Saint-Saëns’ “Les Cygnes.” This piece presents a unique twist, where two swans dance gracefully in the musical narrative. The collaboration between Thomas and Cassidy, both in their personal and musical partnership, yields a beautiful and emotive performance.

Cellist Laura van der Heijden joins the quartet, continuing their successful partnership from the outstanding recording of Schubert’s String Quintet. Van der Heijden’s talent and sensitivity come to the forefront in Cassidy’s arrangements of Debussy’s ‘Des pas sur la neige’ and Prelude No. 10 from Book 1 of Bach’s “Das wohltemperierte Klavier.” Her profound musicianship complements the quartet’s well-established rapport, resulting in deeply engaging interpretations.

Pianist Julian Jacobson makes a poignant appearance in a re-casting of Elgar’s “Adieu.” His touching contribution adds another layer of emotion and highlights the collaborative spirit of the ensemble.

The newest member of the quartet, first violinist Krysia Osostowicz, showcases her talent with effective quartet arrangements of three Gnossiennes by Satie. Her seamless integration into the Brodsky Quartet is evident, and her stylish playing further enhances the ensemble’s musical expression.

Throughout “Golden Oldies,” the Brodsky Quartet demonstrates a remarkable synergy that only comes from years of performing together. The recording captures the warmth and vitality of their live performances, making it a truly enjoyable and engaging experience for listeners.

 The quartet’s dedication to music and the enduring friendship among its members are evident in every note they play. With this splendid recital, the Brodsky Quartet paves the way for another exciting decade of music-making, and “Golden Oldies” is undoubtedly a treasure for both long-time fans and new listeners alike.