The Edinburgh Quartet are Scotland's foremost exponents of new music; they have enjoyed a long relationship with Robert Crawford, who is now surely Scotland's musical elder statesman. His three quartets are given characteristically vivid readings on this recording. They offer a fascinating overview of Crawford's development over the last forty years and the second in particular - with its inspired wit and infectious musicality - deserves far greater renown.
Crawford: String Quartet #3 - 1. Allegro Non Troppo
Crawford: String Quartet #3 - 2. Vivace
Crawford: String Quartet #3 - 3. Mesto
Crawford: String Quartet #3 - 4. Moderato
February 2012
“his early promise is made clear by the first two string quartets. The First Quartet (1949) is a sizeable work whose four-movement format is by no means orthodox...Considerably shorter, the Second Quartet (1957) develops its predecessor's contrapuntal ingenuity and its effective use of dissonance...Dedicated performances by the Edinburgh Quartet and extensive notes from Adam Binks enhance a worthwhile release”
January 2012
“Crawford has a unique voice and one which has been hidden away for too long.”
Crawford: String Quartet #1, Op. 4 - 1. Moderato, Animato
