Search - Ludwig Van Beethoven (composer), Melos Quartet :: Ludwig van Beethoven: The Late Quartets - Melos Quartett

Some parts lag, decent overall

Jeremy Desiderio | Philadelphia, PA USA | 11/11/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It is difficult to say exactly how Beethoven's late string quartets should be interpreted; they are profoundly personal and introspective works, stemming from no other source than the inner spirit of the composer himself. Only Beethoven, then, could have given a definitive answer to this question. It is, however, easier to agree or disagree with audited interpretations - a matter of personal taste. Some prefer the Emerson Quartet's interpretation, others the Melos Quartet, still others the Guarneri (personally my favorite for these works). The Melos Quartet does a remarkable job considering the numerous technical demands placed on the performer during an execution of these masterpieces. Their phrasing is accurate, their tonality clear, and the four musicians never cease to be in concert with one another. However, their tempi in several key spots, such as in the scherzi of quartets Opp. 131 and 135, tend to lag, and their intonation is not always on target. This being an early digital recording, the sound at times is rather obtrusive (not the fault of the musicians, obviously). Having heard several versions (including this one, the Emerson, the Guarneri, and the Alban Berg), I agree that the Guarneri rendition still sets the standard after forty years. On the positive side, the highlights of this recording are Opp. 130, 132, and 133 (the Grosse Fuge). For these works, this version is preferred over most others. Solid performances in every respect of these three quartets - the ethereality for which the late quartets are known is created here.



Not a bad investment overall; just know what you are buying. Maybe your opinion differs from mine."