Some people say they find Schumann an acquired taste, which seems to mean that it's a taste they haven't acquired. The Eroica Quartet's period-instrument recording of the composer's three string quartets might turn out to be just the thing for someone wanting to get into the Schumann musical world.

That's not entirely or even mainly on account of the use of period instruments. The gut strings and limited vibrato do provide a different sense of texture and open the door to certain interpretive possibilities, and these things certainly contribute to the outstanding success of the venture. But these things would not have been enough in themselves. The most important factor is undoubtedly the commitment, originality of understanding and passion the players bring to the music.

The blurb on the cover describes it well: "a radically new interpretation -- on old instruments." What's so radical about it? I've been struggling with the details, but in general the Eroicas seem to do their best to play it as "new music," approaching it as from the past rather than with the romantic sensibilities that emerged with and after Brahms and his generation. Whether or not that's what they set out to do, their achievement is remarkable. There is no lack of romanticism, but there is lightness of touch, a clarity and biting immediacy to it as well. There are moments, many in fact, when one has the impression of not having heard the music before or at least of hearing it with new ears.

I don't know of any other recordings that make as good a case for this repertoire. Highly recommended.