Ravel & Debussy: String Quartets

The Debussy and Ravel string quartets are two of the Impressionist era’s greatest chamber masterpieces, each flowing with sensual, dreamy harmonies and long, languid melodies. The secret to unlocking both quartets’ magical worlds, however, lies in following the composers’ precise instructions. Australia’s Tinalley String Quartet follow them to the letter here. Ravel’s tight rhythms in the dazzling pizzicato opening to his fevered second movement are thrillingly realised, while the passionate abandon of Debussy’s final movement is captured in playing of deep richness. It’s all achieved with impeccable ensemble.