Beethoven: Septet Op 20, String Quintet Op 29, Sextet Op 81b; Schubert: Octet (2CD)

Wiener Oktett

Beethoven: Septet Op 20, String Quintet Op 29, Sextet Op 81b; Schubert: Octet (2CD)

This volume in the Wiener Oktett (Vienna Octet) Decca Legacy includes two staple works in the ensemble’s repertoire: the Beethoven Septet (in its 1959 recording and the Schubert Octet (in its 1957 recording). Beethoven was rather miffed when he heard that, of all his works, his divertimento-like Septet was wildly successful in England. This anthology also includes two chamber music rarities by Beethoven – his Op. 29 String Quintet and the Sextet, Op. 81b, which, for its inclusion of the difficult parts for two horns (superbly negotiated by Wolfgang Tomböck and Volker Altmann) has made this recording a collector’s item much sought after by horn players. Both the Quintet and the Sextet make their first international appearance on CD.

TRACK LIST

BEETHOVEN
Septet in E flat major, Op. 20
String Quintet in C major, Op. 29
Sextet in E flat major, Op. 81b

SCHUBERT
Octet in F major, D. 803

Wiener Oktett