Carl Reinecke, Wind Octet Op. 216, Wind Sextet Op. 271, World premiere recording

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Carl Reinecke's wind chamber music with this captivating album, released in 1992 on the Etcetera label. Spanning a total of 66 minutes, this recording offers a rare opportunity to explore the works of this prolific German composer, who was a prominent figure in the musical landscape of the 19th century.

The album features two of Reinecke's most notable works for wind ensemble: the Octet for Winds, Op. 216, and the Sextet for Winds, Op. 271. These pieces showcase Reinecke's mastery of form and harmony, as well as his ability to create engaging and expressive music for wind instruments. The Octet, composed in 1879, is a four-movement work that demonstrates Reinecke's skill in crafting intricate and sophisticated compositions. The Sextet, written in 1888, is a three-movement work that showcases Reinecke's lyrical and melodic gifts.

In addition to these two major works, the album also includes a world premiere recording of Reinecke's "Von der Wiege bis zum Grabe," Op. 202. This work is a set of character pieces for wind ensemble, each depicting a different stage of life. From the innocence of childhood to the reflections of old age, these pieces offer a poignant and evocative journey through the human experience.

Throughout the album, Reinecke's compositions are brought to life by a skilled ensemble of wind players, who capture the nuances and subtleties of his music with precision and sensitivity. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Reinecke's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

Carl Reinecke, born in 1824 in Altona, was a multifaceted musical figure of the mid-Romantic era, renowned as a composer, conductor, and pianist. His musical journey began under the tutelage of his father, a music teacher, and by the age of twelve, he was already composing and performing publicly. Reinecke's career spanned over six decades, during which he wrote a vast array of works, including symphonies, concertos, chamber music, and songs, showcasing his versatility and prolificacy. Among his notable compositions are the Flute Sonata "Undine" and his four piano concertos. Reinecke's influence extended beyond his compositions; he was a respected teacher who mentored many famous musicians, including Edvard Grieg and Leoš Janáček. His contemporaries included musical giants such as Mendelssohn, Schumann, Liszt, and Brahms, with whom he shared a deep musical camaraderie. Reinecke's legacy endures through his extensive body of work and his enduring impact on the musical world.