Robert Simpson's captivating album, Simpson: Horn Quartet & Horn Trio, is a masterful collection of chamber music that showcases the composer's unique talent. Released on 1 June 1994 by Hyperion, this 50-minute album is a treasure trove of elegant soundscapes, featuring two prominent works: the Horn Trio and the Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano.
The Horn Trio, comprising three movements - Allegro con brio, Tranquillo, and Allegro - sets the tone for the album, with its intricate harmonies and soaring melodies. The Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano, on the other hand, is a more complex and nuanced work, with its multiple variations and themes. From the stirring Moto crescente to the serene Theme, and through the subsequent variations, this quartet is a true showcase of Simpson's compositional skill.
With its rich textures and expressive performances, Simpson: Horn Quartet & Horn Trio is an album that will delight fans of chamber music. Robert Simpson's distinctive voice and style shine through in every note, making this album a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the world of classical music.
Horn Trio: I. Allegro con brioRobert Simpson, Richard Watkins, Christopher Green-Armytage, Pauline Lowbury
Horn Trio: II. TranquilloRobert Simpson, Pauline Lowbury, Richard Watkins, Christopher Green-Armytage
Horn Trio: III. AllegroRobert Simpson, Christopher Green-Armytage, Pauline Lowbury, Richard Watkins
Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano: I. Moto crescenteRobert Simpson, Richard Watkins, Pauline Lowbury, Christopher Green-Armytage, Caroline Dearnley
Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano: IIa. Theme. &ante, sempliceRobert Simpson, Caroline Dearnley, Christopher Green-Armytage, Pauline Lowbury, Richard Watkins
Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano: IIb. Var. 1Robert Simpson, Pauline Lowbury, Christopher Green-Armytage, Caroline Dearnley, Richard Watkins
Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano: IIc. Var. 2Robert Simpson, Richard Watkins, Pauline Lowbury, Caroline Dearnley, Christopher Green-Armytage
Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano: IId. Var. 3Robert Simpson, Pauline Lowbury, Christopher Green-Armytage, Caroline Dearnley, Richard Watkins
Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano: IIe. Var. 4Robert Simpson, Caroline Dearnley, Richard Watkins, Pauline Lowbury, Christopher Green-Armytage
Quartet for Horn, Violin, Cello & Piano: IIf. CodaRobert Simpson, Pauline Lowbury, Christopher Green-Armytage, Caroline Dearnley, Richard Watkins