Quatuor Diotima presents an album of Beethoven's late string quartets, bringing renewed clarity and passion to some of the most profound works in the chamber repertoire. Written in the final years of his life, these late quartets unfold as deeply expressive explorations of form, counterpoint and human emotion. From the solemn majesty of Op.127 to the transcendent variations of Op.132 and the taut and spirited finale of Op.135, Beethoven's vision is at once intimate and vast, weaving intricate textures and soaring lyricism into a continuous, compelling musical narrative. Quatuor Diotima's interpretations illuminate every nuance, revealing the inventive brilliance and emotional depth that make these works enduring masterpieces.One of the most in-demand chamber ensembles in the world today, Quatuor Diotima has worked in close collaboration with several of the greatest composers of the late twentieth century, projecting fresh light onto the masterpieces of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Reflected in the mirror of today's music, the quartet brings new insight and energy to Beethoven's late voice. The ensemble returns to PENTATONE following their acclaimed Metamorphosis Ligeti (2023), Bruckner & Klose: String Quartets (2024) and Boulez: Livre pour Quatuor (2025), and most recently Lachenmann: Works for String Quartet in November 2025.

Tracklist:

String Quartet No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 127-II. Adagio Ma Non Troppo E Molto Cantabile
String Quartet No. 14 in C-Sharp minor, Op. 131-I. Adagio Ma Non Troppo E Molto Espressivo
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135-I. Allegretto
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135-II. Vivace
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135-III. Assai Lento, Cantante E Tranquillo
String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135-IV. Der Schwer Gefasste Entschluss. Grave, Ma Non Troppo Tratto - Allegro

UPC: 8717306266048
Label: Pentatone
Release Date: 6.5.26
Format: CD

Quatuor Diotima - Beethoven: Late String Quartets (CD)