Recording

Beethoven and Schumann Quintets

Kate Bennett Wadsworth and Consone Quartet

Share this
Beethoven and Schumann Quintets - Kate Bennett Wadsworth and Consone Quartet
Beethoven and Schumann Quintets (DXL 1205) - Kate Bennett Wadsworth and Consone Quartet

This new recording unites the Consone Quartet and cellist Kate Bennett Wadsworth to explore Romantic-era chamber music through innovative arrangements of Beethoven and Schumann. Released on Deux-Elles, the album features Ferdinand Ries’ quintet arrangement of Beethoven’s Sonata for Piano and Cello, Op. 5 No. 1 and Wadsworth’s own chamber arrangement of Schumann’s Cello Concerto, Op. 129.

A pupil and close confidant of Beethoven, Ries transforms the virtuosic sonata’s intimate dialogue into a lively quintet, reflecting his deep understanding of his mentor’s music. Wadsworth’s arrangement of Schumann’s concerto, inspired by a suggestion in the composer’s correspondence, offers a chamber perspective that draws on historical practices to highlight its lyrical warmth and dramatic contrasts.

The recording showcases the Consone Quartet’s dedication to early Romantic repertoire. Their collaboration with Wadsworth reflects a shared commitment to reimagining Romantic music with historical insight. Recorded in the beautiful acoustic of the Menuhin Hall, these two reworkings bring contrasting visions of virtuosity into a harmonious social space.

Learn more about Kate Bennett Wadsworth’s arrangement of Schumann’s Cello Concerto in her article for Continuo Connect.

This album, released on the Deux-Elles label, is available to stream on Spotify and Apple, or to purchase here.

Share this

Keep reading
The (Mis)Judgment of Paris
Feature

The (Mis)Judgment of Paris

Delve into the history of John Weldon’s 'The Judgment of Paris', its 1701 competition origins, and how it was reimagined in 2024 by Julian Perkins.

In Conversation: Carina Drury
Spotlight

In Conversation: Carina Drury

Continuo Connect meet Carina Drury, an Irish cellist and founder of Irlandiani as well as being a member of Ensemble Augelletti.

Newe Vialles, Old Viols
Recording

Newe Vialles, Old Viols

Newe Vialles/Old Viols explores 17th-century English music for two historical bass viols and continuo, featuring works by Jenkins, Simpson and more.

Don't miss a beat – subscribe today!

Subscribe to our fortnightly newsletter to get the latest concert recommendations, festival updates, artist profiles, and curated playlists delivered straight to your inbox.

Read our latest newsletter.

Help early music flourish!

Donate now to support Continuo Connect. Every contribution helps cover the costs of running this non-profit website, ensuring free access for musicians, festivals and the public.