The Internet's Premier Classical Music Source
Related Links
-
Beethoven Reviews
Mozart Reviews - Latest Reviews
- More Reviews
-
By Composer
-
Collections
DVD & Blu-ray
Books
Concert Reviews
Articles/Interviews
Software
Audio
Search Amazon
Recommended Links
Site News
Site Search
Follow us on
Affiliates
CD Review
Quintets for Piano, Oboe, Clarinet, Horn & Bassoon
Chicago - Berlin
- Wolfgang Mozart: Quintet in E Flat Major, K. 452
- Ludwig van Beethoven: Quintet in E Flat Major, Op. 16
Daniel Barenboim, piano
HansJörg Schellenberger, oboe
Larry Combs, clarinet
Dale Clevenger, horn
Daniel Damiano, bassoon
Warner Maestro 2564-69172-3 48m DDD
This very interesting disc on Warner's Maestro label pairs two identically scored but extremely intriguing works. Mozart's Quintet K. 452 dates from 1784, one of the composer's most fruitful years. Although he was certainly not new to chamber works, he had never attempted a piece for such a combination of instruments, so to a certain extent he was breaking new ground.
The work is in three movements and its many arresting tunes and virtuosic moments are a manifestation of Mozart's inexhaustible genius. Although Beethoven's friendship with the Salzburg prodigy was questionable, his admiration was undoubtedly on the level of almost total adulation. Hence the Quintet Op. 16 of 1796 has the same tonality, instrumental choice and number of movements. It is a heartfelt homage to his eminent predecessor but while the former is operatic in content, the latter foreshadows the great symphonic masterpieces that were to change music forever.
All five soloists perform with a peerless energy and miraculous unison that delights throughout and although playing time is on the lean side, this issue has a charismatic aura which is all of its own.
Copyright © 2009, Gerald Fenech
