REFLECTIONS – DUDOK QUARTET

The Dudok Quartet Amsterdam’s release, “Reflections,” offers a compelling exploration of two string quartets composed in the early 1950s, a tumultuous period marked by the oppressive shadow of Stalinism. This warmly recorded album presents Grażyna Bacewicz’s Fourth Quartet and Dmitri Shostakovich’s Fifth, shedding light on the emotional turmoil and creative resilience of the era.

Bacewicz’s Fourth Quartet immediately engages the listener with its outgoing demeanor, especially in the lively and spirited finale. Yet, lurking beneath its exuberance are unsettling shades, particularly evident in the first movement. The Dudok Quartet skillfully navigates the intricate emotional landscape, vividly conveying the haunting folk-like melody accompanied by enigmatic tremolos that evoke a sense of desolation and solitude. The quartet’s rendering of Bacewicz’s work is rhythmically dynamic and finely nuanced, capturing the contrasting moods and textures of the composition.

Shostakovich’s Fifth Quartet, another product of the era, presents its own emotional challenges. The Dudok Quartet’s interpretation is a testament to their prowess, delivering a performance that alternates between tremendous power and ferocity, particularly in the outer movements, and moments of poignant introspection, as seen in the central Andante. The slow movement is rendered with eerie precision, creating an atmosphere of unsettling beauty. The quartet expertly navigates the fragile closing bars, leaving a lasting impression of vulnerability and delicacy.

In terms of tempo, the Dudok Quartet’s interpretation of the Shostakovich’s first movement differs slightly from the composer’s Allegro non troppo marking. While their approach infuses the music with urgency and momentum, some listeners might find the Artemis Quartet’s more deliberate tempo on their Warner recording to create a more cumulative symphonic impact during the development section.

However, the Dudok Quartet’s technical prowess and artistry remain undisputed throughout the album. Notably, their arrangements of a selection of Shostakovich’s 24 Preludes showcase their brilliance and ingenuity. Successfully translating the inherently pianistic nature of the preludes into the quartet medium is no small feat, and the Dudok Quartet deserves special commendation for their idiomatic and engaging renditions.

“Reflections” by the Dudok Quartet Amsterdam on the Rubicon label is a thought-provoking musical exploration, delving into the depths of emotion and resilience during a challenging period in history. The quartet’s skillful navigation of Bacewicz’s and Shostakovich’s compositions, along with their inventive arrangements, make for a deeply engaging listening experience that invites contemplation on the profound impact of music in times of adversity.