This album features Niels Wilhelm Gade’s String Quartet in F major, Allegro in A minor for string quartet, Andante and Allegro molto in F minor for string quintet, and Octet in F major Op. 17 performed by the Kontra Quartet with additional musicians These works reflect the early and mature phases of Gade’s career showcasing his evolution as a composer Influenced by Mendelssohn and Schumann his music balances Nordic lyricism with German Romanticism The Octet a highlight of this recording demonstrates Gade’s mastery in chamber music with its vibrant melodies and rich harmonic textures.