Howells, Cooke, Maconchy & Frankel: Clarinet Quintets

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of English chamber music with Thea King's captivating album, "Howells, Cooke, Maconchy & Frankel: Clarinet Quintets." Released on July 1, 1991, under the Hyperion label, this collection showcases King's virtuosity on the clarinet, accompanied by the Britten Quartet, in a selection of quintets that are as diverse as they are delightful.

The album opens with Herbert Howells' Rhapsodic Quintet, Op. 31, a piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection with its lyrical elegance and emotional depth. Thea King then guides you through the intricate, playful movements of Arnold Cooke's Clarinet Quintet, Op. 28, and the dramatic, impassioned passages of Elizabeth Maconchy's quintet. Each piece is a testament to King's technical prowess and her ability to convey the unique character of each composition.

A highlight of the album is Benjamin Frankel's Clarinet Quintet, dedicated to King herself. The closing section, which King describes as one of the loveliest moments in music, is a poignant, peaceful resolution that lingers long after the final note. The album concludes with "Eilean Shona," a serene, romantic piece that leaves you with a sense of tranquility.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a journey through the landscape of English chamber music, from the romantic to the dramatic, the playful to the profound. Thea King's masterful performance, coupled with the exquisite playing of the Britten Quartet, makes this a collection that will enchant and inspire both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.