Richard Strauss's father ensured his gifted son received a thorough grounding in classical music, sternly disapproving of the romanticism of Wagner and Liszt.
Performer Biography
The Delmé Quartet has a reputation as one of Britain's leading interpreters of the classical repertoire and has collaborated with composers like Robert Simpson.
Composition History
Both string quartets on this album are the sole examples in the genre by composers, Giuseppe Verdi and Richard Strauss, who are overwhelmingly associated with the operatic stage.
Critical Reception
Verdi initially spoke deprecatingly of his String Quartet, insisting he wrote it 'for mere amusement' and forbade its publication and performance for three years.
Composition History
Verdi's String Quartet in E minor came about by chance when his leading soprano, Teresa Stolz, fell ill, postponing opera rehearsals and leaving him with time to compose.
Composition History
Richard Strauss's String Quartet in A major, Op. 2, was dedicated to his violin teacher, Benno Walter, whose ensemble gave its first performance in Munich in 1881.
