Dive into the enchanting world of Reynaldo Hahn's lesser-known chamber music with "Reynaldo Hahn: Chamber Music & Song, Vol. 1," released on Champs Hill Records in March 2018. This captivating album, spanning 71 minutes, showcases the versatility and elegance of Hahn's compositions, ranging from piano quartets to vocal pieces.
The album opens with the Piano Quartet No. 3 in G Major, a four-movement masterpiece that highlights Hahn's ability to blend classical structures with a distinctly French sensibility. The quartet's intricate interplay of piano, violin, viola, and cello is followed by a selection of Hahn's vocal works, including the lyrical "À Chloris" and the hauntingly beautiful "Si mes vers avaient des ailes."
The second half of the album features the Piano Quintet in F-Sharp Minor, a dramatic and passionate work that showcases Hahn's range as a composer. The quintet's three movements, performed with virtuosity and sensitivity, are a testament to Hahn's ability to evoke deep emotion and drama through his music.
Throughout the album, the performances by James Baillieu and his ensemble are impeccable, bringing Hahn's music to life with precision and passion. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Hahn's work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, showcasing the beauty and depth of one of the most underrated composers of the late Romantic and early modern eras.