1 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A very first-rate performance. A full recording., March 24, 1999
This review is from: Novelettes Op 15 (Audio CD)
So far, Glazunov's Five Novelettes is available in a complete version under the Meridian label, even though the Shostakovich Quartet also performed it complete (Olympia CD however omitted the last novelette for spacing purposes). Five Novelettes,of 1886, is a set of highly interesting pieces, especially the Orientale mov't. Full of youth & colour compels one to envision various landscapes (in Russia, Spain, Hungary, Austria).
The Fifth Quartet, of 1898, is more classical, conservative, & mature than its 1886 counterpart, although no less & no more attractive. Although Glazunov on occassion can be long winded (his finale is his weakest movement), these two pieces are attractively coherent & flowing, with memorable melodies.
Glazunov was among the finest of composers of chamber music (Borodin & Tchaikovsky were among the others). The performance is energetic, refined, passionate, & yet majestic. The recording, which took place @St. Edwards the Confessor's Church, has great accoustics & liveliness. Buy it. It will not be a waste.
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