Switzerland's Amati Quartet has recorded two highly contrasting works by Dmitri Shostakovich: with Bruno Canino, the Piano Quintet of 1940, which still maintains a recognizable tonal structure; and the Twelfth String Quartet, composed in 1968, a prime example of how Shostakovich approached the twelve-tone system in the string quartet. A grand, emotionally complex fabric in the piano quintet, and a reserved, reduced tonal idiom in the string quartet.

The liner notes "Contemporary World - Opposite World - World of Death", written by Dr. Marco Frei, offer not only interesting musicological insights into the individual works, but also fascinating information on the biographical and historical circumstances under which Shostakovich wrote these works.

The Amati Quartet has been one of the world's leading quartets since its founding in 1981. The present recording stands out for its brilliant interpretation as well as for the insightful combination of the works. The Amati Quartet once again proves how skillfully it can lead its listeners to works that are, at first glance, not easily accessible, and to do so on the highest artistic level.

In Bruno Canino, the Amati string players have found a partner who allies virtuosity and sensitivity in the Piano Quintet. The passionate music-making and artistry of Bruno Canino and the Amati Quartet are documented on countless CD recordings and by their busy international concert agenda.

The Amati Quartet for this recording:
- Willi Zimmermann, first violin
- Katarzyna Nawrotek, second violin
- Nicolas Corti, viola
- Claudius Herrmann, violoncello