The Ebène Quartet's new Schubert album traces the links between Schubert's instrumental chamber music and his mastery of song, placing the monumental String Quintet D956 (guest cellist Gautier Capuçon) alongside five lieder, including the transcendent Death and the Maiden, all in world-premiere arrangements for baritone and strings by the Ebène's cellist Raphaël Merlin.

"He is not only a gifted cellist, but a fantastic arranger and composer," said baritone Matthias Goerne of Merlin. "I have to say it's so astonishing. You have even more possibilities with the strings compared to the original versions."

The admiration was mutual: "Matthias is the king of baritones!" says violinist Pierre Colombet.

"It was a huge privilege for us to have Matthias Goerne sing these arrangements. He is a singer who can walk on water," enthused the Quartet.

Quatuor Ebène's Schubert album, featuring Matthias Goerne, Gautier Capuçon and double bassist Laurèn Durantel, is out now.