Plunge into the rich, expressive world of Erich Wolfgang Korngold with this captivating album, featuring two of his most celebrated chamber works. The Alma Quartet and pianist Severin von Eckardstein bring to life Korngold's String Quartet No. 1 in A Major, Op. 16, a piece that showcases the composer's early genius and his unique ability to blend Romantic lyricism with modernist innovation. The quartet's four movements—ranging from the spirited Allegro molto to the introspective Adagio quasi Fantasia—offer a journey through a landscape of vivid emotions and intricate musical dialogues.
Complementing the quartet is Korngold's Piano Quintet in E Major, Op. 15, a work that highlights the composer's mastery of form and his gift for melodic invention. The quintet's three movements, performed with exquisite nuance by the Alma Quartet and Severin von Eckardstein, reveal Korngold's deep understanding of both the piano and the string quartet, creating a seamless and deeply satisfying musical experience.
Recorded with impeccable clarity and warmth, this album is a testament to Korngold's enduring appeal and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Korngold or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's unique voice and his profound contributions to the chamber music repertoire.