Schubert Octet

Posted by: CFMF on 23 November 2014

I have been spending a lot of time lately listening to this wonderful masterpiece by Franz Schubert. The recording I have is the stereo version by the Vienna Oktett, and I think that it is quite excellent.

 

I have ordered the mono recording, also by the VO, as well as the recording by the Gaudier Ensemble on Helios.

 

Are there other recordings of this work that are recommended?

 

BBM

 

 

 

Posted on: 24 November 2014 by EJS

BBM,

 

The octet is also called Schubert's clarinet concerto and often gets joyful performances, but I enjoy most the performances that emphasize the late Schubert's unease in smaller scale performances that don't relentlessly emphasize the clarinet's main part. A newly issued recording sounds promising based on online snippets, but proof of course will be in the entire pudding as well as time:

 

 

For a more traditional performance, Mullova's first disc for Onyx is quite good although it stays on the superficial side too much for my taste:

Cheers,

EJ

Posted on: 28 November 2014 by George J

I have two recordings of this.

 

The old Decca recording of the Vienna Octet, and the much more recent EMI Reflexe issue of Hausmusik on period instruments.

 

I tend to visit the old Vienna recording more often.

 

ATB from George