Cuarteto Casals launches complete Shostakovich string quartets series with refined first volume

The Cuarteto Casals has released the first volume of their complete recording of Shostakovich's 15 string quartets, featuring the first five composed between 1938 and 1952. The performances are noted for their refinement, particularly in the Third and Fifth quartets, which showcase greater emotional depth. The earlier quartets are described as more traditional and less adventurous. This initial volume sets a strong foundation for the series, highlighting the quartet's ability to convey the expressive demands of Shostakovich's music.