Orion String Quartet - Beethoven: Middle String Quartets (2007)

Seasoned listeners appropriately approach new collections of the Beethoven string quartets with trepidation. After all, many of us already have a recording of these works that we consider to be ideal performances of these works and no one likes to have his/her ideals challenged by something new. Likewise, novice listeners seeking their first set of these venerable works can be overwhelmed by the broad selection available. Fortunately, this recording of Beethoven's "Middle Period" quartets by the Orion String Quartet has something to offer all types of listeners. The first thing listeners will notice is the exceptionally brilliant sound quality of the recording, as if the ensemble were sitting in your living room with you. Every articulation, ornament, and subtle nuance is pristinely audible while sustaining a round, robust tone and plenty in the lower registers. This interpretation of these five quartets is highly energetic and exuberant in fast movements and beautifully simple and elegant in the slow movements, particularly in the two quartets of Op. 59. Tempos within individual quartets are refreshingly divergent -- fast movements are a bit more brisk than might be customary and slow movements are slightly more laid-back. There are occasional intonation problems, especially between the two violins, but this in no way detracts from the otherwise exceptional quality of this collection.

Review by Mike D. Brownell