Franz Schubert - Octet D803 (Scharoun Ensemble Berlin)

Information

Composer: Franz Schubert

• Octet in F Major, D 803

Scharoun Ensemble Berlin

    Wolfram Brandl, violin

    Rachel Schmidt, violin

    Micha Afkham, viola

    Claudio Bohórquez, cello

    Peter Riegelbauer, double bass

    Alexander Bader, clarinet

    Markus Weidmann, bassoon

    Andrej Žust, horn

Date: 2026

Label: Pentatone

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Octet in F major, D.803 by Franz Schubert is presented here as a landmark chamber work, combining symphonic breadth with intimate ensemble writing. The recording is performed by the Scharoun Ensemble Berlin, founded in 1983 by members of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and closely associated with the acoustics of the Berlin Philharmonie’s chamber music hall, named after architect Hans Scharoun. Drawing on decades of experience with the work, the ensemble revisits a piece they have performed hundreds of times, combining interpretative maturity with renewed energy and a new generation of musicians alongside founding member Peter Riegelbauer. The performance captures the full emotional spectrum of Schubert’s writing, from exuberance and lyricism to introspection and drama, shaped by the ensemble’s long-standing artistic identity and deep connection to the work.

The Scharoun Ensemble Berlin is a leading German chamber group founded in 1983 by members of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. Built around the classical octet formation, the ensemble performs a wide repertoire spanning Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and contemporary music, with a strong focus on connecting tradition and modernity. Known for its refined sound culture and innovative programming, it has collaborated with major conductors and vocalists while also premiering numerous works by 20th- and 21st-century composers. The ensemble is closely associated with cornerstone repertoire such as Schubert’s Octet in F major, D.803 and Beethoven’s Septet, Op. 20, and is also active in education through international masterclasses and initiatives like the Zermatt Music Festival.

High Resolution 24-bit / 48 kHz