1.
Franz Schubert
String Quartet in E flat major D87
Melos Quartet [24:48]
2.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky
Symphony No.4 in F minor, Op.36
London Symphony Orchestra/Igor Markevitch 1963 [42:20]
3.
Georg Philipp Telemann
Fantasia No.12 in G minor
Rita D’Arcangelo(flute) [5:23]
4.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Piano Concerto No.25 in C major K503
Eric Heidsieck(piano)
Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire/André Vandernoot 1961 [30:56]
5.
Francisco José de Castro
Sonata prima
La Real Cámara [7:40]
Detailed Musical Analysis
1. Franz Schubert - String Quartet in E-flat major, D87 (Melos Quartet)
Schubert’s String Quartet No. 10, D87, is an early work showcasing his lyrical gift and classical structure. It consists of four movements:
• Allegro moderato: A bright, flowing opening in E-flat major with balanced themes and elegant phrasing.
• Scherzo. Prestissimo: A lively and playful movement, contrasting with a Trio section in C minor.
• Adagio: A serene and introspective slow movement with a singing melody.
• Allegro: The finale is energetic and rhythmic, bringing the quartet to a spirited close.
The Melos Quartet’s interpretation emphasizes Schubert’s youthful charm and classical precision.
2. Pyotr Tchaikovsky - Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36 (London Symphony Orchestra/Igor Markevitch)
This symphony is deeply personal, reflecting Tchaikovsky’s struggles with fate and emotional turmoil:
• First Movement: Introduced by the “Fate” motif, the brass fanfare symbolizes life’s inexorable challenges. Themes of despair and struggle dominate.
• Second Movement: A melancholic reflection on past joys and sorrows, expressed through lyrical woodwind melodies.
• Third Movement: Whimsical pizzicato strings evoke fleeting images of imagination and light-heartedness.
• Finale: A raucous celebration quoting Russian folk themes, interrupted by the ominous return of the Fate motif.
Markevitch’s 1963 recording captures the symphony’s dramatic contrasts and emotional depth.
3. Georg Philipp Telemann - Fantasia No. 12 in G minor (Rita D’Arcangelo)
Telemann’s Fantasia No. 12 for solo flute showcases Baroque elegance with pseudo-polyphonic textures:
• Adagio: A stately opening with modal harmonic writing.
• Vivace: A lively gigue dance movement with intricate passagework.
Rita D’Arcangelo’s performance highlights Telemann’s technical brilliance and expressive nuances.
4. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Piano Concerto No. 25 in C major, K503 (Eric Heidsieck/André Vandernoot)
Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 25 is grand and symphonic:
• First Movement: Majestic themes intertwine with virtuosic piano passages.
• Second Movement: A lyrical Andante with delicate interplay between piano and orchestra.
• Finale: A spirited Rondo showcasing Mozart’s wit and energy.
Heidsieck’s interpretation brings out the concerto’s regal character and intricate dialogues.
5. Francisco José de Castro - Sonata prima (La Real Cámara)
This Baroque sonata features intricate counterpoint and expressive melodies typical of early Spanish compositions:
• The ensemble “La Real Cámara” emphasizes its rhythmic vitality and harmonic richness through period instruments.
Each piece reflects its composer’s unique style, offering a rich tapestry of musical expression across eras.