Long available only in a larger box, the only available digital-era set of Martinů’s string quartets, recorded in 1990 by a native Czech ensemble.
Martinů composed seven quartets over the course of his career, from the First in 1918 to the Seventh in 1947. This chronological range therefore mirrors the development of his music, from Debussy and Franck-accented Bohemianism in the First to a more up-to-date French influence on the Second from 1925, which arrives in the finale at the kind of chugging accumulations of motoric energy that became his trademark.
The Third (1929) proceeds to refine and concentrate this style, still inflected with Czech folk rhythms, before the Fourth (1937) embarks on the project of spicy neoclassicism which lends Martinu’s mid-period masterpieces such as the Fourth and Fifth symphonies their particular, ambiguous sense of industry. Indeed the Fifth Quartet of 1938 is a pivotal work in his huge and multifaceted oeuvre, unsettled, introspective and apparently shadowed by a secret affair with a pupil, whose song is quoted within the quartet.
No.6 dates from 1946, written in Martinů’s postwar exile in the US and yet optimistic where Bartok’s Sixth in similar circumstances is a soul-searching affair. From a year later, the Seventh still retains a youthful, neoclassical vigour, and a Czech flavour to the melodies. This generously filled set concludes with the attractive ‘Madrigals’ Duo and the Second String Trio.
The direct emotional appeal of all seven quartets is vividly brought to life by the Stamitz Quartet in a recording first issued in 1990, and which still has very few rivals on disc. Established in 1985, the Stamitz Quartet quickly became known as leading interpreters of Czech repertory. ‘I can heartily recommend this comprehensive traversal of the unpredictable, occasionally highly impressive works that make up the corpus of Martinů’s Quartets.’ (MusicWeb International)
- Bohuslav Martinů, a Czech composer of the 20th century, made significant contributions to the genre of string quartets, remarkable examples of his creative genius, displaying a unique blend of emotional depth, technical brilliance, and innovative musical language.
- Martinů's string quartets showcase his ability to merge elements of both traditional and modern styles. Influenced by folk melodies, jazz rhythms, and Czech musical traditions, his quartets present a captivating fusion of diverse musical idioms. Accessible yet complex, they bridge the gap between avant-garde experimentation and melodic expressiveness.
- Each of Martinů's string quartets possesses its own distinct character. The First String Quartet (1918) reflects the turbulent atmosphere of World War I, with its dramatic shifts in mood and intricate harmonic language. The Second String Quartet (1925) explores a more introspective and lyrical palette, showcasing Martinu's sensitivity to melodic beauty.
- Martinů's later quartets, such as the Fifth (1938) and Sixth (1953), demonstrate his development as a composer, with an increased use of polyrhythms, complex textures, and daring harmonic progressions. These works delve into the depths of human emotion, often imbued with a sense of nostalgia, longing, or defiance.
- Played by the Czech Stamitz Quartet, recorded in 1990, but still as fresh and urgent as this fascinating works should sound.
