Quatuor Terpsycordes (Strijkkwartet) & Jurg Dahler (Altviool)

QUATUOR TERPSYCORDES & JÜRG DÄHLER

Gut or metal strings, old or modern, Quatuor Terpsycordes is the only quartet that dares to change instruments according to function of the style period it addresses. Their idiosyncratic and at times heartbreaking CD rendition of Schubert's Der Tod und das Mädchen proves their musical enthusiasm and drive for perfection. With the Swiss violist Jürg Dähler at their side, the foursome from Geneva plays two highlights from the repertoire for string quintet. It is known that Mozart preferred to play the viola. His preference for the warm sound of this instrument is reflected in his six string quintets with a double viola part. Johannes Brahms also wrote two works for the same instrumentation, of which the second string quintet in G major from 1890 is considered one of his late masterpieces. Although Bramhs was 57 when he wrote the quintet, there is no noticeable compositional stillness here. In a very energetic finale with stirring gypsy rhythms we hear the power and imagination of a young composer coupled with the refinement and maturity of an accomplished master.