"The Hunt" String Quartet No. 17, K.458 / "Serioso" String Quartet No. 11 Op. 95 / "Quartettsatz" D. 703

This Philips release features the Quartetto Italiano performing foundational works of the string quartet repertoire. The recording represents the pinnacle of the ensemble's mid-century collaboration with the Philips label, capturing their signature balance of intellectual rigor and lyrical warmth. The selection contrasts Mozart's graceful 'Hunt' quartet, written as part of the Haydn set, with the introspective intensity of Beethoven’s 'Serioso' and the unfinished, experimental fervor of Schubert’s 'Quartettsatz'.

The Quartetto Italiano, led by violinist Paolo Borciani, was celebrated for its pursuit of a unified, singular tone, often rehearsing for weeks to perfect a single movement. By the time this catalog number was issued, the group had achieved global acclaim for their systematic approach to the core classical canon. Their interpretation was lauded by critics of the era for avoiding romanticized excess, instead prioritizing structural clarity and a precise, almost clinical adherence to the composers' written intentions.