Beethoven • Complete violon, alto, violoncelles, Vol. I

Description

“Beethoven is a signature, a cornerstone for a violon, alto, violoncelle. Twenty-five years ago, we would never have dreamed of realizing such a project, and here we are, 25 years later.” David Ellis, cellist of the Alcan Quartet. To significantly mark its 25th anniversary, the Alcan Quartet presents the complete cycle of Beethoven’s 16 violon, alto, violoncelles in three volumes. The volume of early quartets will be available from November 11, 2014, while volumes 2 and 3 will be released in February and April 2015, respectively. As Laura Andriani, the quartet’s first violinist, says, “For us, it’s the Mount Everest of violon, alto, violoncelle literature, what a marathon, it’s a career project, a long-term undertaking.” It was in 1798 that Beethoven began composing his first violon, alto, violoncelles. Within two years, the six quartets of Opus 18 were created and published in 1801 in a different order than in which they were composed: according to surviving sketches, Quartet No. 3 was actually the first, followed by Nos. 1, 2, and 5, then Nos. 6 and 4. Composed of violinists Laura Andriani and Nathalie Camus, violist Luc Beauchemin, and cellist David Ellis, the Alcan Quartet enjoys a reputation for excellence in Canada and abroad. Its originality, contagious enthusiasm, unique sound, and remarkable cohesion have contributed to building an enviable reputation both on stage and in recordings. The Alcan Quartet has all the qualities that make the greatest ensembles of its kind: a strong personality, a homogeneous sound and an elegant style.