Ukrainian composer Dmitri Klebanov, [1907–1987] wrote six string quartets. Both his Fourth and Fifth quartets are available on a CD.
The Fourth is in four movements, which are further delineated into smaller sections by brief pauses.
The work opens with a wispy voicing by one violin, soon to be joined by a descending line from a second. The next fragment features two violins in a delightful romp which is transformed into a more pastoral section. Now the first violin converses with the ensemble, with movement being the key component. A slightly harsher section follows. The music winds down with a diminuendo that finishes with a pizzicato stroke.
A solo cello commences the next movement, which is then joined by the ensemble in a stately manner – this is some beautiful writing, very soothing. Now a violin takes over with sparse accompaniment, with the cello being prominent. A very formal section follows, it could be Haydn with its divertimento voicings. The ensemble finally breaks loose and moves into a rhythmic passage. Swirling sounds are in abundance as the movement ends on a sustained chord.
The next movement features ensemble pizzicato playing, and is rhythmically satisfying. A change to arco leads to a soulful passage before the rhythm returns. A decisive theme propels the music forward, and there is a return to a smattering of pizzicato in the ensemble. The end is concise.
The final movement has a strident violin with a soothing accompaniment. A violin simply dances above the pizzicato ensemble and the music moves zestfully forward. Now a more measured section featuring call and response leads to another mood, this time reminiscent of Dvorak, including one of his trademark ending flourishes.
As mentioned the review CD entitled Chamber Music by the ARC Ensemble on the Chandos label also includes the Fifth quartet together with a piano trio.
The CD is on Spotify, and the works can be sampled on earsense and YouTube.
Listenability: Very gentle music.