Romanticism took many forms, shaped by the lasting influence of Mozart and Beethoven. Hummel and Ries, pupils of Mozart and Beethoven respectively, each guided Romanticism in distinct directions -- Hummel through virtuosity, Ries through emotional intensity. Schubert, known for his personal expressiveness, rejected showy display, focusing instead on lyrical depth and intimacy. This recording features period performances of piano quartets by Hummel, Ries, and Schubert, performed by the Van Swieten Society, with with Heleen Hulst (violin), Elisabeth Smalt (viola), Matyas Virag (cello) and Bart van Oort (fortepiano).