This page is also available in / Cette page est également disponible en:
Francais (French)
-
5
Haydn Op. 77 & Mozart K. 614
Rosebud String Quartet: Aaron Schwebel and Sheila Jaffé, violin; Keith Hamm and
Steven Dann, viola; Leana Rutt, celloLeaf Music, 2023
Four instruments, roughly equal in prominence. In the 18th century, this was the basis upon which Haydn composed 68 works that made him the father of the string quartet. In 2023, Rosebud String Quartet’s new album presents an impeccable rendition of two such masterpieces that are as uplifting as they are inspiring.
The quartet’s talent is found in their ability to modulate volume and synchronize with each other in Haydn’s “Lobkowitz” quartets. The violins perk up and pull back at just the right moments to make themselves apparent to the listener while still giving plenty of space to the rich cello. The viola bridges the two, making transition between high and low notes feel natural and smooth. The musicians are confident in their instruments, which allows the optimism of Haydn’s music to shine through.
This is equally true when Rosebud decides to move onto Mozart’s sixth quintet, with the help of Steven Dann on viola. Famously Mozart’s last major chamber composition, it continues the uplifting tone of the album. The two violas are energetic and serene together, showing Rosebud’s effortless ability to co-operate with other musicians.
This is a beautiful, quintessential string quartet performance that’s also easy to listen to—a testament to the group’s skill, given the complex melodies and technical difficulty of the chosen works.
This page is also available in / Cette page est également disponible en:
Francais (French)
