Piotr Salajczyk & Silesian String Quartet - Meyer: Piano Quartet & Quintet (2015) [Hi-Res]

The twin series of symphonies and string quartets stand at the centre of Krzysztof Meyer's achievement as one of the most renowned composers of our time. His mastery of the chamber medium is also revealed in the two works presented here. The Piano Quartet, Op. 112, heard here in its world première recording, is unusual in Meyer's output for its one-movement structure with several contrasting sections. Elegy, threnody and caprice co-exist in an intense interplay of great passion. In its scale and impact the Piano Quintet recalls similar such pieces dating back to Brahms.

As one of Europe's leading composers of chamber music, Meyer's influence is widespread. He was taught by Penderecki, and has written important books on Lutosawski and Shostakovich. He also completed Shostakovich's The Gambler and this performing edition has been staged in various countries - his name will be well-known to admirers of the Russian composer. A key feature here is the first-ever recording of the Piano Quartet, Op.112. Meyer is one of Poland's leading living composers, and his works reflect his awareness of but not imitation of - the music of his fellow Poles Penderecki and Lutosawski.