Richard Stoltzman's 1991 album, "Finzi: Bagatelles, Op. 23 & Clarinet Concerto in C-Minor, Op. 31 & Ashmore: Four Seasons," is a captivating exploration of chamber music that showcases Stoltzman's virtuosity and versatility as a clarinetist. The album is a blend of Gerald Finzi's compositions and a suite of English folk song settings by Geoffrey Ashmore.
The album opens with Finzi's "Bagatelles, Op. 23," a collection of five short pieces that demonstrate Finzi's lyrical and expressive style. The "Concerto for Clarinet and String Orchestra in C Minor, Op. 31" follows, a three-movement work that highlights Stoltzman's technical prowess and musical sensitivity. The concerto's dramatic opening movement, the lyrical second movement, and the playful finale offer a rich and varied listening experience.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Ashmore's "Four Seasons - A Suite of English Folk Song Settings," a charming and evocative suite that captures the essence of each season through familiar folk melodies. The suite concludes with a rendition of the timeless "Greensleeves," a fitting end to this delightful collection.
Recorded with the Guildhall String Ensemble and conducted by Robert Salter, this album is a testament to Stoltzman's artistry and the enduring appeal of these beautiful compositions. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes, it's an engaging and rewarding listen for fans of chamber music and clarinet repertoire.
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