This is a terrific box of all Mozart’s String Quartets plus “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik”, and the Bach fugues, which Mozart arranged, and two of Mozart’s Adagios and Fugues. It’s a collection of superb music, excellently played by one of the world’s leading string quartets.
In my view, some of Mozart’s finest music is in this collection. In particular, the set of quartets that Mozart dedicated to Haydn and the Prussian Quartets are works of real depth and innovation and are wonderful to listen to.
The Hagen Quartet members are superb musicians with excellent technique and flawless intonation. Similarly, their phrasing and careful use of rubato shapes the music perfectly so that Mozart’s wonderful structures shine through and aren’t obscured by over-expressive gestures.
I love all of these CD’s in their different ways and which is best for you will depend on your personal taste.
Here is the quartet number 14 in G-Major, by Mozart as performed by the amazing Hagen Quartet:
