The musical works presented on this CD are not only the product of a particular place (true of every piece ever written, without exception), but also intentionally and unapologetically display their roots, taking folk-based materials as the earth from which they draw the necessary nutrients to cultivate bold, new avant-garde idioms. The journey begins with Bartók, a universal reference for all 20th- and 21st-century composers as regards this approach to composition, and places him alongside two truly fascinating figures of the Hispanic music world: Alberto Ginastera, an Argentinian of Catalan origins, and the Madrid born Rodolfo Halffter, who left Spain for exile in Mexico at the end of the Civil War.

Cuarteto Quiroga, appointed quartet-in-residence in charge of the Royal Collection of decorated Stradivarius at Madrid’s Royal Palace, has established itself as one of the most dynamic and unique quartets of its generation, winning international acclaim from critics and audiences alike for its distinctive personality as well as its bold and original approach to the string quartet repertoire.

“A beautiful tone combined with an unblemished technique […] The sound quality and balance between instruments is admirable […] every detail in the score is faithfully reproduced” - The Strad

“Exquisite: precise, perfectly balanced, interpretively fresh performances, couched in consistently warm hues.” - The New York Times