Quartetto Italiano was one of the most esteemed string quartets of the 20th century, known for their refined interpretations, seamless ensemble playing, and dedication to the classical repertoire. Founded in 1945 in Reggio Emilia, Italy, the quartet initially comprised of violinists Paolo Borciani and Elisa Pegreffi, violist Lionello Forzanti (later replaced by Piero Farulli), and cellist Franco Rossi. Throughout their esteemed career, Quartetto Italiano focused on perfecting the works of classical and romantic composers, though they also performed some contemporary pieces.

The quartet's artistry and polish are best displayed in their recordings of the complete Beethoven string quartets, which remain reference performances to this day. Their artistic output spans the breadth of the string quartet repertoire, as is evident in their recordings of works from Haydn and Mozart to Brahms, Debussy, and Ravel. The group maintained stability in their membership throughout four decades, a rarity in the world of chamber music, which contributed to their consistent style and ensemble cohesiveness. Quartetto Italiano disbanded in 1980, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and a rich discography that continues to inspire both listeners and performers alike. Their later releases often consisted of remastered or previously unheard live recordings, which attest to the enduring appeal of their exquisite performances.

Genres

Quartetto D'archi

String Quartet

Related Artists

Alban Berg Quartett

Quatuor Mosaïques

Takács Quartet

Melos Quartet

Arthur Grumiaux

Hagen Quartett

Beaux Arts Trio

Budapest String Quartet

Emerson String Quartet

Eugen Jochum

Borodin Quartet

Grumiaux Trio

Latest Release

Schubert: String Quartets Nº10 & Nº13

Franz Schubert•

Quartetto Italiano

Album - 8 Tracks - Released June 7, 2024