Schubert: Octet in F

Album review

Astonishing in its length and fascinating for its inventiveness, Schubert's Octet in F major, D. 803, was a major advance for the composer in his diligent efforts to extend his range of expression. In this regard, the Octet may be seen as a steppingstone to the Symphony No. 9, "Great," for it has much of the same expansiveness of that work, which Schumann would later describe as "a heavenly length." Yet the Octet's moods -- strikingly contrasted in the six evenly balanced movements -- are less celestial than earthly and generously human. While Schubert's overriding expression is one of cheerfulness and conviviality, there are occasional shadows of the depression that afflicted him and found fuller expression in his dark string quartets of the same period. The excellent Nash Ensemble, fully conversant with Schubert's characteristic mood swings, deliver the Octet with appropriate shadings and sensitivity, but most importantly keep the emotions on an even keel. The Allegros are virtuosic, bright, and relaxed; the Scherzo and Menuetto buoyant and humorous; and the slow movements lovely and expressive, though the touches of melancholy are controlled. ASV's sound quality is clean, vibrant, and enjoyable for its natural resonance.

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