Presents
Carl Davidov
Piano Quintet in g minor, Op.40
Davidov's Piano Quintet in g minor, Op.40 was composed in 1883 and is in four movements. The big opening Allegro begins with a huge burst of sound and energy. After this dramatic introduction, the lyrical first subject is passed from voice to voice in the strings and shortly thereafter the piano joins in as well. The music alternates between heroic episodes and calmer lyricism. Next comes an Allegretto which serves as a scherzo. The strings begin with a syncopated pizzicato accompaniment as the piano introduces the lively, whirling main theme which rushes forward full of energy. The off beat pizzicatos create added interest. A slower and calmer trio section provides a fine contrast. The piano presents the main subject, a romantic melody, in its entirety in the opening of the third movement, Andante con moto, before the strings echo it. The finale, Allegro molto con brio, explodes with an over abundance of forward motion and energy. The music rushes forward at breathtaking pace until it is slowed by a more lyrical second subject brought forward in the strings.
Carl Davidov or Davidoff (1838-1889) as he was known in the West until recently when a revised Russian transliteration now has him as Karl Davydov, was born in the Latvian town of Kuldiga, then part of the Russian empire. He was recognized as a child prodigy and studied cello with Heinrich Schmidt, principal cellist of the Moscow Conservatory. After taking a degree in mathematics at St. Petersburg University, he studied composition at the Leipzig Conservatory with Moritz Hauptmann and planned to pursue a career as a composer. However, he was so well received as a substitute for the ailing Friedrich Grutzmacher, first cellist of the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra that he decided on a dual career as a cellist and composer. Considered the best cellist of his time, he served as a Professor of Cello at the Leipzig Conservatory and director of the St Petersburg Conservatory while simultaneously pursuing a career as a soloist. In the end, composing took a backseat to these other activities. Most of what he did compose was for the cello, however, he did not ignore chamber music, penning a string quartet, a string sextet and this piano quintet.
This is a very fine work which should not have disappeared. An excellent program choice for professional ensembles as well as amateurs who will relish the opportunity to play a work well within their grasp. Long out of print, we are very pleased to make it available once again.
Parts: $39.95
