Search - Dvorak, Chilingirian String Quartet :: Dvorak: No. 10 in E Flat major, OP.51 and No. 11 in C major, OP. 61

Ouch ! Too many wrong notes ...

02/20/2001

(2 out of 5 stars)

"Opp. 51 and 61 are highlights in Dvorak's extensive, but under-rated and under-performed quartet output. These works are less complex than the late quartets of Beethoven or the six of Bartok, but are more beautuful in many ways. There are several excellent recordings of the undulating, melodic Eb and the majestic C major quartets - but this is not one of them. I was surprised at the number of errors that the quartet made, and disappointed at the lack of warmth and vibrancy that is achieved by other groups in the opening bars of the Eb. These discs are full-price, and are not good value. I would recommend the Prague Quartet recordings, which are superior and cheaper if you are thinking of buying the complete works (well worthwhile - the less famous quartets are a Pandora's box of melodic gems). If you just want to dabble, then get the Vlach quartet recordings on Naxos. Opp. 51, 34, 80, 61, 96, 104 and 105 are a must."