The Vermeer Quartet’s rich tone and emphatic phrasing make for some wonderfully big-hearted renderings of Tchaikovsky’s first and last quartets. They play the big tune of Quartet No. 3’s first movement with all the pathos the music implies yet with the structure intact. The Vermeer’s slightly measured tempo and generously marked articulation makes the ensuing allegro a serious and passionate affair–a decided contrast to the Borodin Quartet, whose quicker tempo lends the piece a tempestuous air. (In fact, the Borodins are generally quicker throughout both works, magically imparting a crafty, feline rubato.) The Andante funebre receives a somber and strongly underlined performance, which is in accord with Tchaikovsky’s in-your-face emotional expression, while the scherzo and finale brim with rhythmic electricity.
The Vermeer brings full commitment to the early Quartet No. 1 as well, lovingly caressing the gentle first movement and imparting a beautiful prayerful quality to the famous Andante cantabile. The close recording perspective creates the tactile presence of the group in your listening room, though it’s impact is a little weak in the lowest registers. This release is a welcome addition to the Cedille catalog, and to the Tchaikovsky quartet discography.
