Leipziger Streichquartett - Beethoven: String Quartet in B-Flat Minor, Op. 130 & Great Fugue, Op. 133 (2007)

Since its debut in 1988, the Leipziger Streichquartett has firmly established its bona fides in the repertoire through brilliant performances ranging from the Classical to the modern literature, yet it has made an especially strong impression with its series of Beethoven string quartets. Like previous issues by this ensemble, this 2007 album of Beethoven's String Quartet No. 13 in B flat major, Op. 130, and the Grosse Fugue, Op. 133, is a knockout, with penetrating and sincerely felt interpretations, richly textured ensemble playing, extraordinary virtuosity, vital energy, masterful control, and gorgeous tone, from the subdued opening of the CD to its emphatic closing chord. These performances, both technically dazzling and deeply affecting, display the full range of "late Beethoven" expressions offered in Op. 130, from the ebullience of the opening Allegro the sparkle of the Presto, and the urbanity of the Andante con moto to the lilting grace of the Alla danza tedesca and the heartache of the Cavatina, all topped off with the Haydn-esque bonhomie of the Finale. Furthermore, the rendition of the Grosse Fugue is as vigorous as they come, with ample humor to balance its fury, transparent separation of parts, and a surprising but welcome amount of grit for an ensemble that is, otherwise, the epitome of polish. As might be expected in a recording by MDG, the sound is natural and free of studio manipulation, and the fantastic acoustics of the room give the Leipziger Streichquartett a marvelous luster. This excellent CD is highly recommended as one of the best of 2007.