For the non-classical listener,
Vaughan Williams is the composer of the Fantasia on Greensleeves and the Lark Ascending. For the classical listener, he's the composer of the "London" Symphony and the Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis. But only for his hardcore fans
Vaughan Williams is the composer of two string quartets and a string quintet. And yet, though anyone who enjoys either the Lark Ascending or the Tallis Fantasia would likely enjoy the English modernist master's chamber music, there are few recordings of the works by which to make their acquaintance. So for many listeners, this Alto re-release of the
English String Quartet's 1988 recordings of
Vaughan Williams' quartets and quintet will be a revelation. Played with a warm tone, an agile technique, a lively sense of rhythm, and a deep affection for the music, the works receive performances wholly worthy of them. The First Quartet and the Phantasy Quintet are both relatively early works in this late blooming composer oeuvre, and the
English String Quartet's performances are filled to the brim with energy and enthusiasm, while the late String Quartet in A minor is a more reflective work and the approach to it is appropriately more inward. Beautifully recorded and faithfully remastered, this disc deserves to be heard by anyone who enjoys
Vaughan Williams' music.