Customer Reviews

Prokofiev: String Quartets 1 & 2 / Cello Sonata

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This CD is a true gem. Prokofiev's Cello Sonata is one of the finest pieces in the instrument's repitoir and a true masterpiece by the composer himself, if somewhat uncharacteristic of his chamber work. The string quartets themselves are true Prokofiev chamber work and very good to the listener. These are pieces rarely seen that deserve far more attention from both enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. For the price this CD can not be beaten.

The two string quartets presented here are vintage Prokofiev chamber works. The string quartet section of the recording is not as amazing a recording as it could be, but its still quite impressive. It begins somewhat roughly, taking a moment to adjust to if one hasn't heard the recording before. The quartet pieces aren't as tonally tame as Bach or Beethoven but are still quite beautiful and don't demand overly much of the listener. Both contemporary and rigidly classical fans can appreciate these oustanding pieces.

The Cello Sonata in C Major is worth the entire purchase in and of itself. The recording is of absolutely amazing quality, the solo cellist having an excellent idea of both the command and emotive requirement of the piece. The cello sonata is Prokofiev at his most romantic, giving way to long melodious passages written perfectly for the sonority of the instrument. Prokofiev's tell-tale irony and sarcasm are also present in the works later movements and the cello part requires an arsenal of bowing and pizzicato techniques - while still remaining one of the most beautiful, smoothly lyrical prokofiev chamber works available.

For the price, there is absolutely no reason not to buy this CD whether you are a fan of Prokofiev, the string quartet, and most certainly for any cello lover.

The string quartets offer another delightful facet of versatile Prokofiev, and the cello sonata is very moving. All the playing is superb. You can't go wrong with this one.

My experience with Prokofiev is basically hit or miss. Either I end up hating the music or loving it. Maybe one reason for that is because a lot of his more well known and famous tunes are not his best. That seems to be the case with many composers for some reason, that their well known songs tend to be amongst their worst. Likewise with Prokofiev, clumsy jibberish like Peter and the Wolf gets more play than this cd because it sounds happy. Whatever the case may be, here is a decent price for some interesting music for strings.