Amsterdam Sinfonietta Soloists – Schubert: String Quintet (2015) [SACD / Channel Classics – CCSSA36215]

Title: Amsterdam Sinfonietta Soloists – Schubert: String Quintet (2015)
Genre: Classical
Format: MCH SACD ISO + DSF DSD64 + Hi-Res FLAC

Schubert’s String Quintet, a chamber music masterpiece, is presented in an unconventional arrangement on this SACD by the Amsterdam Sinfonietta. Typically scored for two violins, viola, and two cellos, inspired by Boccherini and Onslow, this version replaces the second cello with a double bass, played by Rick Stotijn. The adaptation, commissioned from Marijn van Prooijen, draws on Onslow’s practice of writing alternative bass parts after hearing virtuoso Domenico Dragonetti. Stotijn uses a small double bass tuned in fourths with a top C string, adding gravitas while maintaining the original pitch, notably in the first movement’s cello duet. The Amsterdam Sinfonietta delivers a stellar performance, with apt tempi and reactive interplay, though the finale’s violin filigree slightly falters. The arrangement evokes Schubert’s Trout Quintet in its lighter moments. The SACD’s sound quality enhances the ensemble’s brilliance, recorded in vivid detail. Compared to traditional recordings by the Belcea or Pavel Haas Quartets, this version stands out for its novel bass timbre. The liner notes justify the arrangement by citing Schubert’s potential awareness of Dragonetti’s influence. Listeners must decide if they want this unique, compelling take on Schubert’s swansong, which rivals standard versions in execution but diverges in texture.

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Tracklist:

01. String Quintet in C major, D 956 – op. posth. 163: I – Allegro ma non troppo
02. String Quintet in C major, D 956 – op. posth. 163: II – Adagio
03. String Quintet in C major, D 956 – op. posth. 163: III – Scherzo: Presto. Trio: Andante sostenuto
04. String Quintet in C major, D 956 – op. posth. 163: IV – Finale: Allegretto

Personnel:

Candida Thompson – violin
Jacobien Rozemond – violin
Daniel Bard – viola
Kaori Yamagami – cello
Rick Stotijn – double bass

Note:

Produced by Willem de Bordes. Engineered by Daan van Aalst.
Recorded on December 1-2, 2013 at Stadsgehoorzaal, Leiden.
Edited & Mastered by Jared Sacks.

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