Swiss Piano Quintets

Of the string and keyboard chamber ensembles favored by composers in the 19th century, the piano quintet has always proven to be one of the most challenging, since its complement of four strings and piano presents specific difficulties of balance and texture. These difficulties inspired both Joseph Joachim Raff (27 March 1822 – 25 June 1882) and Hermann Goetz (7 December 1840 – 2 December 1876) to create the works presented on this album:

 

Joseph Joachim Raff: Quintet for piano, two violins, viola and violoncello in A minor op. 107 (1862)

 

Joseph Joachim Raff: Phantasie op. 207B for piano, two violins, viola and violoncello (first-ever recording)

 

Hermann Goetz: Quintet for piano, violin, viola, violoncello and double bass in C minor op. 16

 

This program was recorded by the Ensemble Trittico, whose core grouping consists of the experienced chamber trio Jan Schultsz, Jonathan Allen and Daniel Pezzotti. For this recording, the trio was joined by some high-caliber partners and friends who smoothly inserted themselves into the respective quintet formations. The result: three unique interpretations and the fulfillment of a long-held wish of Divox producer and founder Wolfram M. Burgert.

 

The Trio Trittico unites three exceptional, internationally recognized artists in a unique ensemble concept which is stamped by a high measure of enthusiasm and creativity, which in the present recording is also expressed in a larger medium.

 

A source of genuine enjoyment for all lovers of sophisticated, virtuoso chamber music!