France was on the brink of revolution and Haydn was at the height of his international fame. These flamboyant quartets were written especially for the lucrative Parisian market, where quatuor brillant was becoming increasingly popular. The style is dazzlingly virtuosic and Stefan Arzberger shines with Haydn's most brilliant, high-flying, concerto-like passages, leading this remarkable ensemble's captivating interpretation with admirable aplomb.