Album insights
Gabriel Fauré's eventful 1870s marked a crucial period in his life. His mentor Saint-Saëns encouraged him to join the newly established "Société Nationale de musique française" in 1871, leading Fauré to meet prominent French musicians like Franck, d’Indy, and Lalo. Through Saint-Saëns, he gained entry into Parisian high society. Despite a passionate pursuit of Viardot's daughter Marianne, their engagement in July 1877 was short-lived as Marianne ended it, feeling more fearful than affectionate towards him.
During the later phases of his disheartening love affair, Fauré crafted his First Piano Quartet, portraying emotional intensity without overwhelming sorrow. Fauré's focus on sincerity and artistic clarity is evident in his work, aiming for purest expression. The quartet's movements, from the conventional Allegro molto moderato to the vivacious Allegro vivo and the poignant Adagio in c-Moll, reflect subtlety and elegance in musical construction, culminating in a joyous yet restrained finale.
The Second Piano Quartet, composed around 1885/86, showcases Fauré's continued genius in chamber music. Although lesser known than its predecessor, it embodies melodic richness and meticulous thematic interplay. The contrasting movements within the quartet, from the fervent Allegro molto moderato to the tranquil Adagio, display Fauré's ability to balance passion and tranquility. The final Allegro molto stands out for its relentless energy and culminating joy.
Through meticulous craftsmanship and a balance of emotions, Gabriel Fauré's piano quartets reveal an artist who sought authenticity and elegance in his compositions, leaving a lasting mark on the realm of chamber music.