String Quartets, Vol. 3. Op. 127, 131, 130, 133 Grosse Fugue, 132, 135

The Alcan String Quartet celebrates its 25th anniversary with a landmark three-volume recording of the complete cycle of Beethoven’s 16 string quartets. Here is the last instalment, dedicated to the greatest last Quartets. “The waters of the Danube will empty themselves into the sea many a time before the creations of this man will have been fully understood,” said Schubert. Indeed, during the first half of the 19th century, Beethoven’s last quartets generated more astonishment than enthusiasm. The first ever performance of the complete cycle of 16 quartets was held in London in 1845. The Alcan Quartet—violinists Laura Andriani and Nathalie Camus, violist Luc Beauchemin, and cellist David Ellis—is active in Canada and internationally. The quartet’s originality, contagious enthusiasm, unique sonority, and remarkable cohesion have all contributed to its success. Both on stage and in the recording studio, the Alcan Quartet possesses the qualities that characterize the best ensembles of its kind: a recognizable personality, a homogeneous sound, and an elegant style.