Vítězslav Novák - Complete String Quartets (Stamic Quartet)

Information

Composer: Vítězslav Novák

• String Quartet No. 1 in G Major, Op. 22
• String Quartet No. 2 in D Major, Op. 35
• String Quartet No. 3 in G Major, Op. 66

Stamic Quartet

    Jindřich Pazdera, violin

    Josef Kekula, violin

    Jan Pěruška, viola

    Petr Hejný, cello

Date: 2025

Label: Supraphon

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Celebrating 40 years of artistic excellence, the Stamic Quartet presents the first complete recording of Vítězslav Novák’s string quartets. Composed between 1899 and 1938, these works reflect Novák’s stylistic evolution—from Romantic influences to a distinctive voice shaped by Moravian and Slovak folklore, church modes, Impressionist color, and rhythmic complexity. The quartet interprets this diverse repertoire with deep experience, technical precision, and expressive enthusiasm, offering listeners a vivid and cohesive journey through the composer’s development. This landmark recording showcases both Novák’s musical richness and the Stamic Quartet’s enduring artistry and commitment to uncovering and championing lesser-known masterworks.

Founded in 1985 by four seasoned musicians, the Stamic Quartet quickly gained international recognition, winning prestigious competitions and performing at major venues such as Queen Elizabeth Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Tokyo’s Tsuda Hall. With a wide-ranging repertoire from early string quartets to contemporary works, the ensemble is also dedicated to reviving neglected Czech composers like Vaňhal, Vranický, and Koželuh. Notable recordings include complete quartets by Josef Bohuslav Foerster and Sofia Gubaidulina. Today’s lineup, featuring Jindřich Pazdera and Petr Hejný, continues the quartet’s tradition of originality, depth, and exceptional artistry in both historical and modern repertoire.