Search - Franz Joseph Haydn, Kodaly Quartet :: Haydn: String Quartets from Op.1 Nos. 0 & 6 and Op.2 Nos.1 & 2

Sunny and Simple

Alan Lekan | Boulder, CO | 01/01/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"With Opus 1 being the first musical work a composer deems worthy of publication, one would not expect it to be a monumental composition (except in the case of Beethoven's brilliant Op. 1 piano trios). And in Haydn's case, these light, sunny but simple compositions are not. Much of the quartet part writing is in unison with few opportunities for contrapunctal interplay, virtuostic display or freeing of the cello part. While they contain many pleasant melodies and carefree discourse, Haydn's Op. 1 and 2 "quartets" don't quite exude the sparkle and magic of Mozart's famous divertimenti pieces for galas, balls and celebrations.



But, there is much to enjoy in these works - certainly they pleasant, uninstrusive background music. Perhaps one major contribution of such early works like these is to serve as a contrasting reference point to view the great, later quartets of Haydn. Often one starts in Haydn's string quartets with Op. 33, 64 or 76 - works of great depth, maturity and richness - and is not aware of the origins of such superiorly developed works. The Op. 1 and 2 quartets give that reference point and, after hearing them, one might appreciate the later compositions in a deeper way - prehaps not unlike experiencing a truly fine wine after tasting lesser vintages. At least that was my experience with hearing these early works after years of listening to the later quartets.



Regardless of such perspectives, the Kodaly Quartet exhibit their fine musicianship here, playing these simpler quartets with much care and heartfelt expression. The sound quality of these earliest recordings in the series have a bit more resonance and "spacial ambiance" - likely due to the engineers fine-tuning the setting as this slight difference dissipated in subsequent recordings. But, there is really nothing to cite as an major deficiency for not purchasing the set if you enjoy the simple beauty of string divertimenti music.



However, if you are looking to start to build a Haydn String Quartet collection, there are more rewarding choices than the Op. 1 or 2. Starting with a few in Op. 3 - and really with Op. 9 - Haydn began the foundation of modern string-quartet dynamics, so these are a better recommended starting point. But, the real creme of Haydn's quartets began with Op. 20, continued with 33 and 64, finally consumating with Op. 76. Haydn's Op. 9, 50, and 77 are also substantial but less recommended before the others. But, regardless of what you pick, the Kodaly Quartet series is among the finest choices (and best value of course), receiving universally high marks from music critics like Penguin Guide or Third Ear Guide. For those who prefer the more dramatic tones and textures of period instruments, the brilliant Austrian ensemble, The Quatuor Mosaiques, is at the top of the field. If can only get one set, their Op. 20 is very special and one of the finest chamber recordings in the catalog."