Customer Reviews

Mozart: String Quartets (Complete Mozart Edition, Vol. 12)

5 star:		(3)
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This box set is a fantastic addition to anyone's Mozart collection. Performances are passionate and simply beautiful.
It is fascinating to listen to the quartets chronologically and hear Mozart's development as a composer (even the earliest quartets have many fine moments). While the sound quality of the quartets recorded in 1966 are not as crisp as those recorded in the 70s, every disc has acceptable sound and is a treasure in itself.
Highest of recommendations!

Mozart's string quartets need no introduction. This collection is a compilation of recordings made by the famous Quartetto Italiano over a period of several years. The playing is excellent and it is very interesting to hear this range of quartets played by a single ensemble. At less than $14 per disk (Amazon list price plus shipping costs), this is an incredible bargain for so much rewarding music.

Since you listen the first bars of any of these memorable works, you feel the difference that makes the great difference. The approach given by these excellent musicians is unique in what sublime perfection, astonishing musicality and enrapturing commitment concerns. Paolo Borciani, the unforgettable leader of this ensemble sealed his name in the Holly Pantheon of the greatest with these unvaluable, prodigious and lavish recordings.
All the possible adjectives are not enough to describe the status of these performances.
Don't miss these golden recordings under no pretext!

The box set advertised here is the original release by the Italiano Quartet part of the Phlips Complete Mozart Edition.

It has been re-released in a slim line box by Phlips (which I can't seem to find on Amazon!), it is basically the same, save the bulkiness of the original.

The recorded sound produced for the Italiano is always above standard, but it is a different Mozart than most are used to. String quartets in general are always a tougher language to understand, but Mozart seems to hold back on his genius, giving a milder side of his nature.

The middle and late works are often slow and somewhat sad, no outbursts, surprises or raw energy. Only in his early quartets does he employ his whimsical and joyful creativity...often I wondered if it was indeed Mozart I was listening to in the middle and late quartets...because it definetly doesn't sound like him! Strange but intreguing nevertheless.

All in all, an essential part of Mozart ouvre to study and enjoy.