Listening Log – [Pt. V]- Luigi Boccherini – String Quintet in E maj Opus 11 No 5. G275

Listening Log – [Pt. V]- Luigi Boccherini – String Quintet in E maj Opus 11 No 5. G275

The minuet (third movement) from this String quintet is very well known. It is frequently used for Weddings and it has been used in numerous films and tv shows over the years, it was even spoofed in the comedy Spinal Tap. For this reason, I find the minuet quite difficult to listen to with any sense of objectivity. In my mind and to my ears it will forever have other connotations and associations. I do however really enjoy the first movement ‘Amoroso’ with itslyrical and beautiful violin lines. The first violin playing a very melodic and graceful, occasionally answered by the second violin. The viola slowly comes in with countermelodies and finally a cello joins with long sustained melodic figures, also very lyrical. The most striking feature of the string quintet is the use of two cellos. The cello lines are extremely elaborate and agile, and the instruments is really pushed to the front rather than just being used for accompaniment.

Overall the entire Quintet impresses me with its fluid and gentle flow. It is elegant and beautiful and tender throughout.