The album title "Portraits" and the concept of a "gallery of portraits" were inspired by the painter Amedeo Modigliani, whose name the quartet bears.
Instruments
The members of the Quatuor Modigliani play on historical instruments: Amaury Coeytaux and Loïc Rio play Guadagnini violins (1773 and 1780), Laurent Marfaing plays a Mariani viola (1660), and François Kieffer plays a Goffriller cello (1706).
Compositional Technique
Scherzos, like those featured on this album, often reveal a composer's personality through their strong accents, sudden dynamic variations, and mischievous humor, as pioneered by Joseph Haydn.
Interpretation
The Quatuor Modigliani chose to include both well-known and lesser-known works, such as pieces by Rachmaninoff and Puccini, to create a diverse program.
Recording & Production
This album celebrates the Quatuor Modigliani's 15th anniversary.
