Customer Reviews

Dvorak: String Quintets Op. 1 & 97

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

 

 

The Vlach quartet has given us a very fine series of Dvorak quartets for Naxos, but the two discs that comprise their series of string quintets might, on the whole, be even more valuable. The early op.1 quintet is very rarely heard, and it might on the whole lack the melodic distinction of Dvorak's later music, but it is still a very rewarding and attractive work and - as opposed to several of his contemporaneous works - it doesn't outstay its welcome. In fact, Dvorak gives us a structurally strong and balanced work, full of panache, energy and good ideas. It certainly deserves an occasional airing, and in performances as appealing as this one it comes across as a very satisfying work.

The op. 97 quintet is still, of course, a superior work; in fact, this so-called `American' quintet must rank among the composer's most marvelous chamber pieces; the tunes are simply wonderful, vigorously energetic and catchy, imaginative and atmospheric, and the music full of marvelous textures and colors in addition to impeccable formal construction. An indisputable, deeply absorbing masterpiece, and I am happy to report that the Vlach quartet (augmented with the violist Kyselak) is absolutely riveting; evocative and imaginative, yet determined and brisk, with wonderfully clear lines. The sound quality is quite excellent as well, so this recording is on the whole heartily recommended. A distinguished release.

The Vlach quartet, Prague does a wonderful job with these two pieces. Opus 1 is pleasant and tunefull but Opus 97 is the real stand-out. As the other reviewer mentions this was one of several works written during Dvorak's stay in the U.S. and it shares the attributes making those such great works: folksy tunes and nostalgic moods among other things. The recorded sound here is excellent and allows you to easily hear the fantastic job done by each musician. This CD is easy to recommend highly.

While this may not be the very best performance of Op.97 that I've heard (I slightly prefer the Talich or Leipzig), it is, nevertheless, very good. When you take into consideration the price, it becomes even more attractive.

Dvorak: String Quintets Op. 1 & 97 is a 1997 Naxos recording from 1997 feauturing the Vlach quartet and Ladislav Kyselek on viola. Music notes have been written by Keith Anderson. Highly recommended. 5/5.

These beautiful Dvorak string quintets deserve excellent performances and they get them in full measure from the Prague based Vlach Quartet. In particular the no. 97 is played with glorious spirit and tenderness, whilst avoiding the exaggerated expression that sometimes creeps into chamber music performances. This recording confirms once again the amazing quality of Naxos recordings which belies their low price. As always, the notes are comprehensive. Highly recommended.