Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of French chamber music with the Orsino Ensemble's debut album, "Belle Époque - French Music for Wind." Founded in 2018 by the renowned flutist Adam Walker, the Orsino Ensemble is dedicated to exploring the rich chamber repertory for wind instruments. This exquisite collection, released on April 1, 2021, under the prestigious Chandos label, features a stellar lineup of wind soloists and pianist Pavel Kolesnikov, who joined the ensemble for this remarkable recording.
Spanning a diverse range of compositions from the Belle Époque era, this album showcases the Orsino Ensemble's virtuosity and versatility. The program includes works by celebrated French composers such as Camille Saint-Saëns, Gabriel Fauré, and André Caplet, among others. From the lively "Divertissement for Wind Quintet and Piano, Op. 6" to the serene "Syrinx" by Debussy, each piece is a testament to the ensemble's technical prowess and artistic sensitivity.
The album's duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes offers a comprehensive journey through the French musical landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Highlights include the captivating "Quintet for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon and Piano, Op. 8" and the evocative "Deux Nocturnes, Op. 32," which showcase the ensemble's ability to convey a wide range of emotions and moods.
Recorded in Hybrid-SACD format, "Belle Époque - French Music for Wind" ensures a high-quality listening experience, allowing the intricate details and nuances of the performances to shine. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.