Antonín Dvořák - String Quartets No. 12 'American' & No. 13 (Merel Quartet)

Information

Composer: Antonín Dvořák

• String Quartet No. 12 in F Major, Op. 96, B. 179 "American"
• Cypresses, B. 152: XI. Allegro scherzando
• String Quartet No. 13 in G Major, Op. 106, B. 192
• Symphony No. 9 in E Minor, Op. 95, B. 178 "From the New World": II. Largo (arr. Rafael Rosenfeld)

Merel Quartet

    Mary Ellen Woodside, violin

    Edouard Mätzener, violin

    Alessandro D'Amico, viola

    Rafael Rosenfeld, cello

Date: 2026

Label: Prospero Classical

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With this recording, the Merel Quartet offers a vivid and perceptive portrait of Antonín Dvořák, one of music’s great humanists. His chamber works unite lyrical immediacy, harmonic richness, and a distinctive warmth that resonates across generations. Focusing on compositions from his late creative period, the album highlights both well-known repertoire and lesser-heard pieces, including two rare works presented in thoughtful arrangements for string quartet. The result is a compelling exploration of Dvořák’s artistry, emphasizing both emotional depth and structural refinement.

The Merel Quartet, winners of the 2025 “Golden Bow” from the Violin Making School Brienz, have earned widespread acclaim since their founding in 2002. Renowned for their precision, expressive depth, and tonal balance, they perform across leading European venues and festivals. Their repertoire spans three centuries, from Baroque to contemporary composers, reflecting notable versatility. The ensemble frequently collaborates with distinguished musicians and appears on major European radio stations. Their recordings, including works by Schumann, Janáček, and the Mendelssohns, have been highly praised for their intensity, clarity, and artistic cohesion, further establishing the quartet’s reputation as a leading chamber music ensemble.

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