If you want an alternative to the urgent, edge-of-seat Schumann performances recorded by the Zehetmair, Ysaye, and Eroica Quartets, try the sweeter-toned, smaller-scaled transparency of the Cherubini Quartet’s early-1990s EMI traversals. For all their precision of ensemble, the musicians manage not to compromise the individuality of their respective timbres. During slow movements it’s easy to gravitate toward Christoph Poppen’s silvery timbre and quick vibrato (shades of Zino Francescati), while the alto-like purity and focus of violist Hariolf Schlichtig’s contributions are most attractive.
The ensemble’s lightweight agility and capacity for rhythmic élan particularly hits home in the First quartet’s scampering, Mendelssohn-inspired Scherzo. However, its Schumann Quintet collaboration with pianist Christian Zacharias is a letdown. The first movement reeks of unctuous phrase tapering and grandiose, provincial ritards, while the brisk pace for the second movement trivializes the stark mood of its basic slow march rhythm, let alone its gnawing dissonances. While the remaining movements fare better, they fall short of the intensity and sweep distinguishing Argerich and Friends (EMI) and the Serkin/Budapest Quartet (Sony). In short, consider EMI’s bargain price tag for the quartets alone.
