WEINBERG’S STRING QUARTETS: VOLUME 3

Weinberg’s string quartets are a treasure trove of emotion, history, and artistic expression, and in the third volume of their ongoing Weinberg cycle, the Arcadia Quartet continues to unlock the composer’s world with captivating performances of his Fourth and 16th quartets. Their renditions, marked by a deep understanding of the music and unwavering commitment, serve as a poignant tribute to this underrated genius of 20th-century classical music.

The journey begins with Weinberg’s Fourth Quartet, composed in 1945. It opens with a seemingly gentle and pastoral melody, inviting the listener into a tranquil landscape. However, Weinberg’s distinctive style soon introduces darker shades, reflecting the turmoil of the era. The second movement exudes a Bartókian fervor, with aggressive passagework that challenges the ensemble’s technical prowess. The mournful Largo marciale that follows is a heart-wrenching testament to war’s scars. The Arcadia Quartet navigates these shifts in mood with remarkable skill, effortlessly transitioning from serene to tumultuous.

The 16th Quartet, dating from 1981, is a more emotionally elusive work. Dedicated to the memory of the composer’s sister, who perished during the German occupation of Poland, this piece carries a weight of profound personal loss. The Quartet captures the ethereal qualities of the music, with Bartók’s influence evident in the spectral repeated fourths of the captivating scherzo. The outer movements also reveal a strong influence of Jewish-inflected folk music, offering a multifaceted listening experience.

Arcadia Quartet’s performances in this recording are nothing short of exceptional. Their deep commitment to Weinberg’s music shines through in every note. The ensemble’s interpretive choices, rich in contrasting timbres, articulations, and dynamics, demonstrate a clear vision of the direction of each movement. This allows the listener to fully engage with the music, even during the more introverted passages.

Furthermore, the recorded sound quality is a true asset to the release. It offers clarity and focus, allowing the listener to appreciate the nuances of the performance and the intricate details within Weinberg’s compositions.

The Arcadia Quartet’s third volume of Weinberg’s string quartets is a profound journey through the composer’s work. These talented musicians breathe life into Weinberg’s emotionally charged music, offering a heartfelt tribute to his legacy. Whether you are already a fan of Weinberg’s music or new to his compositions, this recording is a must-listen. It captures the essence of a composer whose music is often overlooked but richly deserving of recognition and appreciation.