Olivier Messiaen: Quartet for the End of Time
Inhuman perfectionThis astonishing performance blows away any and all previous recordings of this magnificent work. Ilya Kaher, probably the greatest living violinist, is only one component here of a musical collaboration that makes Tashi sound arid by comparison. Yes, the two Louanges are breathtaking and sensitive almost beyond comprehension (hallelujah Janice Weber!!!), but there is not a moment anywhere here where any performer fails to achieve transcendence. (The filler Theme and Variations for violin and piano, from 1932, are also a major revelation.) --Michael Celbar, Amazon.comThe purpose of this recording, as set forth in the (excellent) liner notes, is to adhere "more closely to the artistic desires of Messiaen, as indicated by his detailed markings in the score, his later writings and musings on the work, and his supervised recording of 1991". And these are no ordinary performers...For starters, the ensemble is wonderfully recorded. Each player shines in the extended solo passages. More than that, the unison in VI is breathtaking. By avoiding any vibrato, the sounds of clarinet, strings, and piano mesh into one perfect whole. It's brilliant. The players explore the stillness of the piece to great effect. Tempos are "inexorable" (to use the composer's word) when necessary, but the stillness goes beyond tempo choices. In music without a consistent time signature there is a danger of sounding aimless. Not here. The performers manage to make the music sound like it is unfolding rather than wandering. --Jason Sundram, American Record GuideI am using your CD as a model. It's absolutely stunning. I was so impressed by how perfectly in sync and in tune the sixth movement is and also by how delicate is the first movement...The recording is absolutely incredible. The whole thing sets a new standard for recordings of that piece. Congratulations! --Rebecca Rischin, Author of "For the End of Time"