Beethoven’s wit, intensity, and daring are showcased in quartets that span the full course of his brilliant career. The D-Major Quartet’s contemplative tone is expressed in simple themes, but in the finale the composer lets loose with driving rhythms. The “Serioso” is the only quartet Beethoven nicknamed; it’s an impassioned work with tremendous intensity and stormy struggles. There’s also a tempest in the compelling Second “Razumovsky” Quartet, as well as novel touches that include a quote of a Russian folk tune in honor of its dedicatee.