Mozart: String Quintets Nos. 1-6 (Complete)
Performed by:
- Renaud Capuçon, Alina Ibragimova (violins)
- Gérard Caussé, Léa Hennino (violas)
- Clemens Hagen (cello)
These rarely performed string quintets for two violins, two violas and cello, which Mozart produced in his last four years, show him at his best. This music is deeply expressive chamber music; The richness and warmth provided by the two violas was an attraction, as was the increased freedom allowed the cello.
The extra instrument also enabled Mozart to draw upon a broader set of partnerships, dialogues and accompaniment combinations within the group, in almost symphonic fashion.
Keep in mind that Mozart loved the viola, and he frequently played the viola parts when he played chamber music for his own enjoyment.
This recording also features a terrific group of performers, as listed above. In particular, Clemens Hagen is the cello member of the Hagen Quartet. And Ms. Ibragimova has certainly made a name for herself as a violin performer.
Here is the string quintet K. 516 by Mozart:
