"Borodin's String Quartet No.1 has been overshadowed by the ultra-tuneful No.2, which is indeed a lyrical masterpiece. It's predecessor is not quite that; then again, the Borodin Quartet's state-of-the-art performance of No.1 here shows that this is a winsome, engaging, far-too-neglected work with some really lovely moments, like the frosted glass sounds that open the Scherzo movement's trio section. Miaskovsky's Quartet No.13 too, is a warmly engaging creation, brimming with rich invention. And as played here in pungent, live-wire style, Stravinsky's one-movement Concertino sounds like the mini masterpiece it is." --Classic FM Magazine July 2010 *****
The acclaimed Borodin String Quartet’s second recording for Onyx. Borodin’s remarkable 1st quartet with its references to Beethoven’s op131 is coupled with Stravinsky’s wonderfully concise Concertino of 1920 and Myaskovsky’s epic 13th quartet.
The Borodin Quartet has been at the very centre of the chamber music world for over 60 years, and has seen several changes in personel during this period. This new Onyx recording is the first to feature the new cellist Vladimir Balshin who replaced Valentin Berlinsky recently.
The Borodin Quartet has been at the very centre of the chamber music world for over 60 years, and has seen several changes in personel during this period. This new Onyx recording is the first to feature the new cellist Vladimir Balshin who replaced Valentin Berlinsky recently.
