Ries: Quartets for Flute & Strings

Petrucci, Ginevra, Trio David

97150

Ferdinand Ries (1784-1838) was born in Bonn and moved to Vienna in 1801, where his life became closely related to that of Ludwig van Beethoven (also a native of Bonn…). Ries studied piano with him, copied his scores and was the interpreter of several new works, notably the premiere of the Third Piano Concerto. Ries also wrote the first biography of Beethoven, an invaluable source of first-hand information.

Ries’ style inevitably is modelled on that of his master Beethoven, he was however strong enough to stand on his own. His compositions include symphonies, violin and piano concertos, three operas, and numerous chamber works, reflecting a style that bridges classicism and early romanticism.

Ries’ Flute Quartets stand out for their concertante qualities. The flute shines in brilliant passages, while the themes and developments are shared by all four instruments. The expressive individuality of these pieces, with original and consistent dialogue between the protagonists, places them among the best in the genre, after Mozart’s works.

Played by Italian flutist Ginevra Petrucci, who already brilliantly recorded chamber works for her instrument by Beethoven (BC96494), Kuhlau (BC94769), Briccialdi (BC95767), Haydn (BC94620) and Muczynski (BC95433).

Works:

•Ferdinand Ries: Flute Quartet No. 1 in C Major, Op. 145
•Ferdinand Ries: Flute Quartet No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 145
•Ferdinand Ries: Flute Quartet No. 3 in A Major, Op. 145
•Ferdinand Ries: Flute Quartet No. 1 in D Minor, WoO 35
•Ferdinand Ries: Flute Quartet No. 2 in G Major, WoO 35
•Ferdinand Ries: Flute Quartet No. 3 in A minor, WoO 35

CD x 2

Brilliant Classics

3/4/25

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