Quartetto Intimo Op. 89 / Lento Quieto (From Quartetto Geniale Op. 97) / Aquarelles (Music – Pictures Group 2) Op. 32

Released in the early 1980s by the Pearl label, this recording features the Endellion String Quartet performing works by the British composer John Foulds. Foulds was a highly original and somewhat enigmatic figure in 20th-century music, known for his synthesis of Western classical traditions with Eastern philosophical influences. The selection, including the Quartetto Intimo, reflects his intricate, harmonically adventurous style which had largely fallen into obscurity following his death in 1939 before seeing a critical revival in the late 20th century.

The Endellion String Quartet was instrumental in bringing these complex scores back to the public ear, capturing the ethereal and highly detailed nature of Foulds' writing. The record is noted for its clarity in rendering the atmospheric shifts of the Aquarelles and the profound emotional depth of the Intimo quartet. Upon its release, the recording was praised by critics for its contribution to the restoration of Foulds’ reputation, providing a definitive interpretation that highlighted the technical mastery required to navigate his unorthodox musical language.