Piano Quartet No. 2 in G minor, Op.45, score and parts; Gabriel Faure (International)

Gabriel Faure left an indelible mark on the Romantic era with his chamber music, not least of which his two piano quartets, which are among the foremost works in the genre. His Piano Quartet No. 2 in G minor, Op. 45 is written for the conventional instrumentation of piano, violin, viola, and cello. His characteristic style are on display in the first and third movements with serene, lyrical melodies and subtle yet rich harmonic color. Unusual for Faure, the scherzo and finale movements are filled with unbridled passion and a driving energy. The quartet is the work of a composer moving away from the pleasant salon style of his day, toward a conception of chamber music as capable of more serious and profound expression. This edition from International includes all performing parts in a slipcover.