Album: The 6 "Haydn" Quartets (Juilliard String Quartet)

Introduction
The 6 "Haydn" Quartets are a collection of six string quartets made up by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart between 1782 and 1785. They are so called since Mozart devoted them to his buddy and mentor, Joseph Haydn, who is often considered the "father of the string quartet". In 1962, the popular Juilliard String Quartet tape-recorded their interpretation of these 6 quartets, even more cementing their location as masterworks in the repertoire of chamber music.

Mozart and Haydn's Relationship
Haydn and Mozart's relationship was unique worldwide of symphonic music. While they were both giants in their field, they preserved a deep mutual regard and admiration for each other. Mozart was significantly influenced by Haydn, especially in his earlier works, and would typically go to Haydn for recommendations and assistance.

These 6 quartets were composed throughout a time when Mozart had transferred to Vienna and was taking pleasure in terrific success and development as an author. As a result, these works display both Mozart's artistic maturation and his ongoing admiration for Haydn. The devotion to Haydn in the quartets checks out, "A father who has actually chosen to send his kids out into the fantastic world and has taken the trouble of having them instructed by the finest possible teachers".

Structure and Composition
Each of the 6 quartets in this collection has distinct qualities that showcase Mozart's compositional expertise. The quartets are as follows:

1. String Quartet No. 14 in G significant, K. 387
2. String Quartet No. 15 in D minor, K. 421
3. String Quartet No. 16 in E-flat significant, K. 428
4. String Quartet No. 17 in B-flat significant, K. 458 (" The Hunt").
5. String Quartet No. 18 in A major, K. 464.
6. String Quartet No. 19 in C significant, K. 465 (" Dissonance").

With these six quartets, Mozart expanded upon the kinds and structures established by Haydn in his earlier quartets. Each quartet is composed in a four-movement style, generally including a quick opening movement, a sluggish second movement, a minuet (a dance kind) and a dynamic ending. While sticking to these structures, Mozart explores a wide range of emotional depth and showcases his capability to perfectly weave together melodic and harmonic material.

Some highlights of the collection include the elaborate counterpoint and chromaticism discovered in the first and last movements of K. 387, the haunting charm of K. 421's slow motion, the sophistication and wit of K. 458 (" The Hunt"), and the striking harmonic language discovered in the opening of K. 465 (" Dissonance").

The Juilliard String Quartet's Recording
In 1962, the Juilliard String Quartet set out to tape-record the total cycle of Mozart's "Haydn" Quartets. Comprised of violinists Robert Mann and Isidore Cohen, violist Raphael Hillyer, and cellist Claus Adam, the ensemble was understood for their virtuosity and dedication to excellence. Their recording of these quartets has actually been hailed as a benchmark interpretation for the method they brought out the subtleties and complexities of Mozart's writing, permitting the music to really speak for itself.

The Juilliard String Quartet's efficiency is marked by remarkable modulation, unbelievable accuracy, and a heartfelt psychological connection to the music. This recording not just showcases Mozart's luster as a composer but likewise exhibits the ability and artistry needed to bring these work of arts to life in efficiency.

In conclusion, the 6 "Haydn" Quartets composed by Mozart are a sensational testament to the power and appeal of chamber music. The Juilliard String Quartet's 1962 recording records the essence of these works and uses listeners a chance to experience the depth of Mozart's genius within the intimate confines of the string quartet format.