Search - Dmitry Shostakovich, Sviatoslav Teofilovich Richter, Borodin Quartet :: Piano Quintet in G / String Quartets 7 & 8

Brilliant Shostakovich

Peter Chordas | Portland, OR USA | 03/24/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The string quartet No. 8 is the most intense and fabulously played here. I had this recording on tape and it was for that reason I bought the CD. Much to my delight, the No. 7 and Piano Quintet with Richter make this my very favorite Shostakovich CD.



These pieces by the Borodin String Quartet were recorded in 1984 when they were at the peak of their performance. At the time, they ruled over all other string quartets (including the Juilliard) with there cohesive and intuitive playing, lyricism, and evocative outpour of emotion exhibited throughout their playing. Their pianissimos and crescendos are unmatched. Of course the pressure from the former Soviet Union also demanded 100% or suffer the consequences and I think few Americans realize that. A bad performance could mean the end of benefits and future concerts.



In any case, I've heard several other renditions including the Brodsky, Gabrieli, and Juilliard quartets and none come close to giving the dynamic performance as the Borodin String Quartet. The intensity of the Allegro molto (second movement) of the 8th is remarkable. The slow movement flows like fluid. I salute them for this extra fine analogue recording."