Presents
Carl Nielsen
String Quintet in G Major
Although Carl Nielsen (1865-1931) achieved international recognition as a composer and even today is regarded as Denmark’s most important 20th century composer, this is largely due to the reputation of his symphonies. Unfortunately, his excellent chamber music has remained almost unknown outside of Denmark. Nielsen was born on the island of Fyn (Funen), the seventh of twelve children. His father was a painter by trade, who also played the violin and cornet and as a result was much in demand as a village musician. Nielsen exhibited a talent for music at an early age. His father suggested he study a wind instrument so that he might pursue the career of a musician in a regimental band. Nielsen followed this path briefly but decided he wanted to study violin and to compose. So with the financial help of friends, he was able to attend the Royal Conservatory in Copenhagen where he studied with Niels Gade.
His String Quintet in G Major dates from 1888. Although it has no opus number, we know that he began work on it immediately after composing his somewhat better known Little Suite which was given Op.1. It was performed a number of times in the decade after he wrote it and then forgotten until a year before he died when he dedicated it to a friend. It was not published during his lifetime which almost certainly is the reason that this fine work is seldom ever heard and has only been recorded once or twice. Yes, it is not at all representative of his later style, but so what. Does the fact that Beethoven’s Op.18 quartets sound nothing like his Late Quartets mean they are worthless? Of course not, and this quintet is a very worthwhile work, deserving of concert performance and the time of amateur players as well. The opening movement, Allegro pastorale, is somewhat misnamed. The main theme is an heroic, upbeat melody, full of energy. A lovely, very romantic Adagio comes next. The main theme unfolds slowly like a flower in time lapse photography. The third movement, Allegro scherzando, is playful and full of nervous energy and a little bit edgy foreshadowing some of his later works. The finale, Allegro molto, is full of youthful exuberance and forward motion. This is an altogether satisfying work.
This is a very good work which deserves to be heard in concert and can also be warmly recommended to amateur players.
Parts: $29.95
Parts & Score $39.95
