It is not wrong what is written here. Quartets 5 & 6 (op.18) are among the early works with which Beethoven established his name in Vienna. The Quartet Serioso is an impressive succession of emotional outbursts, without Beethoven losing his grip on the discourse. The late Quartet in C sharp minor (op.131) is a mystery, let's get to that. "What else can you compose after this," would saysighed
… after listening to this quartet. The Quartet op.130 can be heard here with the Grosse Fuge, the original finale. This massive piece can seem quite intimidating even now. That is why Beethoven eventually provided the quartet with an alternative (lighter) finale. The alternative final is also played here. Even in the most dramatic moments, the Cuarteto Casals plays light and transparent, as if it were . Which produces beautiful, supple performances that are sometimes a bit on the civilized side. (HJ)more
