The Tokyo String Quartet performs on 'The Paganini Quartet,' a renowned set of Stradivarius instruments once owned and played by the legendary virtuoso Niccolò Paganini.
Composition History
The 'Grosse Fuge' (Great Fugue), Op. 133, was originally the closing movement of String Quartet No. 13, Op. 130, but was replaced because it was deemed too difficult for performers and audiences.
Critical Reception
For decades after Beethoven's death, his late string quartets were considered obscure and impossible, with Vienna hosting only seven public performances in 25 years.
Composition History
Beethoven returned to composing string quartets in 1822 after a decade-long break, prompted by a request from Prince Nikolai Galitzin of St Petersburg.
Performer Biography
The Tokyo String Quartet, founded in 1969, has been quartet-in-residence at New York's 92nd Street Y and on the faculty at the Yale School of Music since 1976.
Recording & Production
This album marks the first time the Tokyo String Quartet recorded in Japan, with some sessions taking place at Tokyo's Oji Hall.
You might also enjoy...
Beethoven: The Late Quartets, Opp. 127, 130, 131, 132, 133 (Grosse Fuge) & 135
