Customer Reviews

Telemann: Paris Quartets

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

 

 

This is one of only two complete recordings of Telemann's Paris Quartets available as a single set, and is much superior to the old Bruggen set. The Kuijkens are all very stylish and engaging performers, and they play these works very well.

Telemann wrote a lot of very good chamber music, but these quartets show him at his best. They are full of wonderful melodies, and some amazing rhythmic quirks. If Telemann had not been so prolific, these works would be considered absolute masterpieces on the order of the Brandenburg Concertos of Bach. They are that good.

This is by far the best recording of these Quartets. The Kujiken brothers are skilled players of their instruments -- a great achievement for self-taught musicians. Their version of these works of Telemann is fulfilled with virtuosity and panache, doing justice for the technically demanding scores. But there's more than just technique. You will find here real music. Don't miss this album!

This is a surprisingly wonderful collection. My only complaint might be that there's TOO MUCH of it, if that's possible. Not knowing much about Telemann, and expecting little from the venerable Kuijkens and Mr. Leonhardt, I found instead some very well considered, beautiful performances of immediately accesible and enjoyable baroque compositions. The recording is deep and lush and the playing is spot-on precise as well as emotive. These performers have aged well and this collection is the proof.

This Telemann: Paris Quartets is a thoroughly enjoyable baroque listening experience. Barthold Kuijken is outstanding. Five stars.