Though his later works relied almost exclusively on his trademark twelve-tone atonality,
Schoenberg was always one to pay homage to the masters and traditions that came before him. The Third and Fourth string quartets, while clearly atonal, are prime examples of this trait. The Third Quartet reminds listeners of rondo, minuet, and theme and variations while describing a gruesome image from
Schoenberg's childhood in the first movement. The Fourth Quartet uses a system of sustained variation while echoing composers of the Classical and Romantic eras. Both of these quartets are elaborate and sophisticated pieces of music that can easily be rendered nebulous without a strong, authoritative performance. Fortunately for listeners, the
Fred Sherry String Quartet, under the supervision of renowned conductor and
Schoenberg scholar
Robert Craft, produces just such a performance. The quartet's technical execution is beyond reproach: brilliant intonation, striking tone colors, tight-knit ensemble, and precise articulation. Even though the quartet changes 50% of its members between the Third and Fourth quartets, it maintains a surprisingly consistent and satisfying vision.
Craft's supervision yields an amazingly vivid soundscape, careful balance between the instruments, and spacious stereo imaging. This album, part of
Craft's complete
Schoenberg project, also features an equally commanding performance of the fiendish Phantasy for violin with piano accompaniment by violinist
Rolf Schulte and pianist
Christopher Oldfather. As with previous installments of
Craft's work on Naxos, this album is highly recommended.