The Auryn Quartet has recorded all of the Haydn, Beethoven, Brahms, etc. quartets on TACET and a number of more contemporary works on CPO. For this new release they have added the fine violist Nobuko Imai to the stew.

As one might predict from the large number of recordings already made by all, this turns out to be a highly detailed series of interpretations. Repeats are observed, including the almost never played development and recapitulation ones. These work well here since they are played with conviction and a variety of approach. Of course, the main reason for including them is that Mozart’s music is so full of contrast and lovely melodies that one finds something new every time you play them. Mozart’s own transcription of his Wind Quintet, K406, is an effective addition.

There have been fine recordings of these works by the Juilliard Quartet, Hausmusik, Fine Arts Quartet, and more. The Auryn makes a good case for theirs by playing them with sensitive phrasing and technical perfection and including those repeats. The recorded sound is clear and clean, and these are compositions that should be in everyone’s listening library.

David Moore

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