Opus13 Mendelssohn and Grieg Album Review: A Distinctive Debut 2026

Opus13's debut album featuring Mendelssohn and Grieg is an assured and distinctive introduction to a quartet that has already made waves in the classical music world. As current BBC New Generation Artists and winners of last year's Wigmore Hall and Bordeaux string quartet competitions, expectations are high—and Opus13 delivers with a performance that is both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant.

Opus13: A Quartet to Watch

Formed in Oslo in 2014, Opus13 named themselves after the first piece they played together: Mendelssohn's String Quartet No. 2 in A minor, Op. 13. It is fitting, then, that this work opens their debut album. The quartet's deep connection to the piece is evident from the first notes. The brief, soulful introduction immediately draws the listener in, giving way to a tense, runaway allegro where occasional violin swoops only heighten the sense of urgency.

Mendelssohn's Op. 13: A Nod to Beethoven

Mendelssohn's debt to Beethoven is clear throughout the quartet, and Opus13 honors that lineage while bringing their own fresh perspective. The slow movement is played with an intense warmth that places it alongside Beethoven's great adagios. The ensemble's dynamic control and unified phrasing make this a standout interpretation.

Grieg's Quartet No. 1: Momentum and Folk Flair

Paired with the Mendelssohn is Grieg's String Quartet No. 1 in G minor, Op. 27. This work is full of insistent repetition, which Opus13 handles beautifully, creating momentum rather than letting it sap energy. The folksy style hinted at in the second movement blossoms in the third, where the quartet adds a touch of Nordic fiddle—exuberant yet elegant. It's a performance that captures the rustic charm and rhythmic drive of Grieg's music.

Encore: Solveig's Song

As an encore, the quartet offers more Grieg: a characterful version of Solveig's Song from Peer Gynt. The arrangement is credited to the entire group equally, a testament to their collaborative spirit. It's a delightful conclusion to an album that showcases both technical prowess and deep musicality.

Why This Debut Stands Out

Opus13's debut is distinctive for several reasons. Their youthful energy is balanced with a mature understanding of the repertoire. The chemistry among the players is palpable, resulting in performances that are both cohesive and individually expressive. Moreover, the choice of repertoire—pairing Mendelssohn and Grieg—highlights the connections between these composers and their shared Romantic sensibilities.

Comparison with Other Debut Albums

To put this release in context, here's how it compares to a few other notable debut albums by string quartets in recent years.

Key Takeaways

• Assured and distinctive debut from Opus13, showcasing their BBC New Generation Artists status.
• Mendelssohn's Op. 13 is performed with urgency and warmth, highlighting Beethoven's influence.
• Grieg's Quartet No. 1 receives a lively, folk-infused interpretation with excellent momentum.
• Collaborative arrangement of Solveig's Song as an encore reflects the quartet's egalitarian spirit.
• Available on Apple Music and Spotify for streaming.

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