This work is great. Some of it is a little drawn out, like the second movement. But this is characteristic of Schubert sometimes, reusing material in a sectional fashion as a means to produce length. This sectional way of writing, much like in the Trout, reminds me of the way lieder or songs are written, with choruses, verses, reprises and bridges. The third movement is so much fun to play.
What Wikipedia has to say about it:
While it was thought by earlier critics to lack the polish appropriate to a work of high-classical art music, it has grown steadily in reputation. Current consensus holds that the Quintet represents a high point in the entire chamber repertoire; the work is regarded as deeply sublime, with moments of unique transcendental beauty. It incorporates many unusual technical features, including the final two notes: the flat supertonic and the tonic, played forte in all parts.
The recording below is of a pretty good quality. I am used to hearing the middle section of the third movement rolling along faster than what they take it at, so I am not sure I can make a judgment on the aesthetic choice with out hearing more recordings.
Rest of the recording and parts are below the fold.
Schubert String Quintet Op. 163
- Schubert String Quintet In C Major, Op. 163 Score
- Schubert String Quintet In C Major, Op. 163 Violin I
- Schubert String Quintet In C Major, Op. 163 Violin II
- Schubert String Quintet In C Major, Op. 163 Viola
- Schubert String Quintet In C Major, Op. 163 Cello I
- Schubert String Quintet In C Major, Op. 163 Cello II
[ad#Adsense Post]