The Gaudier Ensemble - Schubert: Octet

In 1824 it was suggested that Schubert should write a work similar to Beethoven�s Septet (also recorded by the Gaudiers for Hyperion). He subsequently approached the project with such enthusiasm and concentration that a friend wrote of him, �If you go and see him during the day he says �Hello. How are you?� and carries on working, whereupon you leave�. Schubert added a second violin to Beethoven�s scoring for clarinet, bassoon, horn, violin, viola, cello and double bass, but adhered to the Septet�s movement structure and key sequences almost entirely. However, the melody and beauty that infuse the Octet are quintessentially Schubert, and justify the work�s enduring popularity.Here are outstanding performances from an ensemble that draws together some of the most distinguished musicians in Europe.