Brother and sister
Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn shared many traits: born only four years apart, died tragically early in the same year, schooled by the same teachers, and each possessing a remarkable musical talent. For Fanny, though, acceptance of her music was difficult to come by, especially within her own family. By the time her music was just beginning to be played and published, her life was nearly over. This album features the E flat major string quartet of Fanny, as well as the A minor and E flat major quartets of
Felix. While there are many similarities to be found between brother and sister -- particularly the influence of
Beethoven on their writing -- listeners will also notice Fanny's own independent voice, which was far from merely following in her younger brother's footsteps. All three of these quartets share a penchant for intensity and vivaciousness and successful performances of them require a great deal of forward momentum and passion. There is, of course, a line between exuberance and overkill. The
Asasello Quartett, heard here on this Avi Music album, crosses that line one too many times. First violinist Rostislav Kojevnikov is most frequently guilty of crossing that line by pushing his instrument far beyond its ability to produce a pleasing sound, forcing his way through passages that need not be forced. Their passion frequently comes at the expense of intonation, particularly when playing in unison or octaves. In time, the
Asasello may be able to tone down its youthful shortcomings; for now, though, there are better options for recordings of these quartets.