The sixth volume of
La Magnifica Comunità's survey of the string quintets of Luigi Boccherini focuses on the six quintets of Op. 25. Written in 1778, they represent another step in the continuing maturation of Boccherini and his movement away from the Baroque and toward the classical. Unlike previous installments of quintets for two violins, viola, and two cellos, Op. 25 is nearly devoid of the highly virtuosic first cello part, instead giving the bulk of the melodic duties to the first violin. Listeners who have invested in previous volumes of this cycle will notice how
La Magnifica Comunità's approach to Boccherini's quartets changes and develops along with the composer's changes in style. Volume six features a much broader dynamic palate; more assertive, in-the-string playing; and an appropriate increase in emotional transparency. The ensemble's strengths from previous volumes remain intact: an informed, academic understanding of the score; close attention to intonation; brilliant balance between the instruments; and a warm but clear sound quality produced on its selection of period instruments. Those already invested in this survey of Boccherini's great chamber music works will welcome yet another addition to their collection.