Customer Reviews

Dvorak: The String Quartets

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Dvorak's string quartets are among the finest ever written, yet aside from the famous "American" quartet, op. 96, and a few of the later works, they remain largely unknown. This is a shame, because most of the quartets are masterpieces, full of distinctive melodies and unlimited invention. These performances by the Prague String Quartet are the finest ever put to disc, and one of the few collections of the complete Dvorak quartets. Just listen to their light touch and warm tone in "Cypresses," or the bravado and tunefulness of the third movement of the "American" quartet. All of the performances sparkle, and the recording quality is consistently excellent.

The only viable alternative is the Naxos edition performed by the Vlach Quartet, which is also quite good. That edition is probably slightly cheaper, but the Prague set is already at budget price and economically packaged in a slim box. Either way, you can't lose. If you haven't discovered these works yet, do so now. Dvorak's quartets are the equal of Beethoven's much more celebrated string quartets, Schubert's late quartets, the best quartets of Mozart and Haydn, and any other works you can name.

I have heard multiple recordings of these quartets, including the Chiligirian quartet, and selections by the Prazak quartet, Talich Quartet, Hagen quartet, Melos quartet and Vlach quartet. However, these renditions are (in my opinion) the most adherent to the Czech folk roots. I'm sure it helps that the ensemble is in fact Czech-for that reason they seem to have an edge over some of the other notable groups which have made recordings. Everyone has obviously heard the American quartet, but just as fine are quartets 10,11, 13 and 14 (as well as 7-9). I am less entranced by the early works, but they are not without their merit as well. There may be better individual performances available, such as the Talich Quartet's survey of the late works or some of the pricey single disc releases by the Prazak quartet. But the performances here are very good and as far as complete sets go there's no serious competition.
Overall, the sound seems a bit better in this re-release than in the previous version available on CD. Not much better, but better. And at this price, it is an absolute steal. Highly recommended for lovers of chamber music, or Dvorak in general.
If you only want the last 4 quartets (plus quintet op. 97 and the piano quintet, you should check out the Talich Quartet on Calliope - budget price and excellent sound and performance.

These quartets of Dvorak deserve the dedicated beautiful performances that the Prague quartet brings to them. The lush sound, the delicacy of delivery and joyful celebration delivered here make this set an example of some of the finest chamber music making available in the cd catalogue. I can imagine no finer committed playing available anywhere. Most of these quartets will be new to just about anybody but the connosieur and they (the quartets) are worthy of having been recorded. It is a gift to revel in these performances; a presence at the intmacy of the soul's finest level. We have here musicians of the highest order.Each member of the quartet plays in perfect harmony with the other. The Prague Quartet gives a stellar performance without every getting getting in each other's way. Kudos to DDG for having made this available at such a reasonable price. Lovers of chamber music need not hesitate to buy and cherish this set. Previous reviewers have said better what I am trying to say but I have said it anyway. This is beautiful music beautifully played that brings the healing and hope that is so badly needed, especially in these times.

The Prager Quartet plays Dvorak's scores with ample warmth as well as introspection. These are glowing performances which Deutsche Grammophon recorded in the late 1970's. Unquestionably, they stand as one of Deutsche Grammophon's finest recordings from that period. It is hard to see how much further they could be improved with the latest sound quality. This is a splendid compilation of Dvorak's string quartest. Judging from the caliber of the performances as well as Dvorak's excellent scores, both the performances and the scores rank beside the finest I have heard from Beethoven and Mozart. Admittedly, this might be an expensive investment, even at a budget price, yet it is definitely worth buying.

I must admit up front that when it comes to classic music, I prefer chamber music (any era or style). If you like chamber music, buy this set. If you are are curious about chamber music and Dvorak's work, buy a budget single CD of any Dvorak string quartets. When you've fallen in love with Dvorak's work --- and you will --- then buy this set.

These are simply some of the finest string quartets ever written. Lyrical and inventive, they will make you understand why Brahms and Dvorak were such good friends and admired each other's work so much. There are other recordings out there of various quartets, particularly the late ones. But the value in having a complete set is that you get to hear the composer's development, and you get to hear infrequently played yet brilliant works. A good example is the Quartet No. 5, which is intense --- as full of bite as, say, "Death and the Maiden," yet as richly melodic as anything Dvorak ever wrote. The recording is clean and warm, the playing precise yet soulful. The set is now selling for about $12 more than I paid for it, but it's still a bargain. You will never regret having bought it.

Whenever analog original recordings are digitized, it can be hit or miss. I listen to a lot of vinyl because, even with it's flaws, it doesn't fatigue you. This box set has a wonderful, natural sound. It won't dissappoint!

Wow! Great quartets played with real gusto and dynamism by the Prager String Quartet. The sound is incredibly crisp and clear. The performances are impeccable. You won't be disappointed!

One of the best composers for chamber music together with Joseph Haydyn, I think. Thank you.

Compaired to the Vlach on Naxos, this exelent recording left me a little cold. Where is all the emotion that these quartet's should have.

Insensitive performances, almost unlistenable. If you love this music, as I do, you should hear the Vlach Quartet or Suk Quartet performances...the few there are. Save your money.