Hyperion Records releases Claude Debussy's 'String Quartet in G Minor' on the new album String Quartet & Sonatas. It also includes other pieces performed by The Nash Ensemble. Debussy wrote his only string quartet in 1893. It was his first piece of mature chamber music and while it is immediately recognizable as Debussy, two influences are also apparent: Russian music (especially Borodin) and the cyclic forms and harmonic fluidity of César Franck. The quartet was a success at its first performance on 29 December 1893, given by Eugène Ysaÿe’s quartet at the Société nationale de musique in Paris.

This album consists of five different works, spread over 14 tracks (1 hour, 11 min, 41 sec).

The Nash Ensemble tackle each piece with a true respect for the original material. The performances are subtle, beautifully interpreted and really shine a light on the magic and sheer emotion that Debussy was able to conjure up in his works.

This is a lovingly produced album that should take pride of place in any serious collector's library. A diverse collection of pieces that feel so fresh and modern.

Track listing:

01. Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune L87 [8'45]

Violin Sonata in G minor L148 [13'58]
02. Allegro vivo [5'16]
03. Intermède: Fantasque et léger [4'15]
04. Finale: Très animé [4'27]

Sonata for flute, viola and harp L145 [17'12]
05. Pastorale: Lento, dolce rubato [6'39]
06. Interlude: Tempo di minuetto [5'48]
07. Finale: Allegro moderato ma risoluto [4'45]

Cello Sonata in D minor L144 [11'46]
08. Prologue: Lent, sostenuto e molto risoluto [4'42]
09. Sérénade: Modérément animé [3'16]
10. Finale: Animé, léger et nerveux [3'48]

String Quartet in G minor L91 [24'45]
11. Animé et très décidé [6'23]
12. Assez vif et bien rythmé [3'46]
13. Andantino, doucement expressif [7'24]
14. Très modéré [7'12]

10

Darren Rea