Béla Bartók: The Six String Quartets — Takács Quartet (3 CD Set)

UPC: 5991811250225 

MPN: HCD 12502-04 (Digital Stereo) 

Brand Name: Hungaroton Classic

Overview

This definitive 3-CD set presents Béla Bartók’s complete six string quartets, performed by the world-renowned Takács Quartet, one of Hungary’s finest chamber ensembles. Recorded in Digital Stereo (DDD) and first released by Hungaroton Classic, these interpretations capture both the raw intensity and the refined craftsmanship of Bartók’s revolutionary writing for string quartet.

From the youthful lyricism of Quartet No. 1, Op. 7, to the emotional depth of Quartet No. 6, Sz. 114, this complete cycle charts Bartók’s creative evolution — from late-Romantic roots to modernist innovation. The Takács Quartet delivers a performance of striking energy, precision, and authenticity, deeply rooted in the Hungarian musical tradition.

Product Features

• Format: 3 Compact Discs (DDD Digital Stereo)
• Total Duration: Approx. 152 minutes
• Recording Type: Digital Studio Recording

• Performers:

  Language of Booklet: English / Français / Deutsch / Magyar
  • Gábor Takács-Nagy – Violin I
  • Károly Schranz – Violin II
  • Gábor Ormai – Viola
  • András Fejér – Cello
• Recording Year: 1984 (Reissued 1997)
• Label: Hungaroton Classic (Hungafoton)
• Country: Hungary

Track Listing

CD 1

1. String Quartet No. 1, Op. 7, Sz. 40 – 29′02″
2. String Quartet No. 2, Op. 17, Sz. 67 – 26′31″

CD 2

1. String Quartet No. 3, Sz. 85 – 15′44″
2. String Quartet No. 4, Sz. 91 – 22′16″

CD 3

1. String Quartet No. 5, Sz. 102 – 30′01″
2. String Quartet No. 6, Sz. 114 – 28′28″

Interesting Facts

• A Landmark in Chamber Music: Bartók’s six quartets are considered among the most significant 20th-century works for string quartet, often compared to Beethoven’s in scope and innovation.
• Authentically Hungarian: The Takács Quartet brings unparalleled idiomatic understanding, having been trained in Bartók’s homeland and steeped in the folk traditions that inspired much of his music.
• Critically Acclaimed: This recording remains one of Hungaroton’s most respected releases, frequently cited by critics for its clarity, balance, and emotional intensity.
• Multilingual Notes: Includes program commentary in four languages — ideal for international collectors and scholars.

Publishers

Published by Hungaroton Classic Ltd. (Originally recorded by Hungaroton, 1984; reissued 1997). All rights reserved.

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