Anton Arensky’s String Quartet No. 1 appeared in 1888…The Andante sostenuto is…a simple, lyrical song whose charm lies in its rich accompanying harmonies, while a central section nods perfunctorily at counterpoint. But the finale is by far the best thing in the work, a theme and variations (a form that, like Glazunov, Arensky excelled at) of a very Russian cast. The variations revel in the art and unpredictability of which the composer was a master.

The Ying Quartet started life in 1988 with four Winnetka, Illinois, siblings who all studied at the Eastman School of Music. Their most distinguishing characteristics are an emphasis on energy, a narrow, disciplined tone, chance-taking, and intense group practice. I enjoyed their silky and at times quixotic versions of the Tchaikovsky quartets and Souvenir de Florence…and wasn’t surprised to find much the same qualities exhibited on this release…as the central section of the Piano Quintet demonstrates, they and pianist Adam Neiman are certainly capable of using rubato and expressive dynamics as to the romantic manner born. These are, in short, worthy performances of all three pieces.

With excellent sound, definitely recommended. © 2012 Fanfare Read complete review

It’s all very attractive music—particularly the Andante sostenuto of the G major quartet—and the Ying Quartet plays as if Arensky’s work were absolutely first rate. © 2012 WCLV Read complete review

The andante sostenuto [of Anton Arensky’s String Quartet No. 1] is better, a simple, lyrical song whose charm lies in its rich accompanying harmonies, while a central section nods perfunctorily at counterpoint. The finale is by far the best thing in the work, a theme and variations (a form that, like Glazunov, Arensky excelled at) of a very Russian cast. The variations reveal the art and unpredictability of which the composer was master.

The Ying Quartet started life in 1988 with four Winnetka, Illinois, siblings who all studied at the Eastman School of Music. Their most distinguishing characteristics are an emphasis on energy, a narrow, disciplined tone, chance-taking, and intense group practice.

With excellent sound, definitely recommended. © 2012 Fanfare Read complete review