Hugh Wood, a prominent English composer born in Parbold, Lancashire, presents a captivating collection of his chamber music works in this album, released on October 2, 2012, under the Toccata Classics label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album showcases Wood's prowess in the chamber music genre, which he typically prefers, although he is also known for his striking large-scale works such as symphonies and concertos.
The album features a variety of pieces, including piano trios and a clarinet trio, each demonstrating Wood's unique compositional style and narrative depth. Notable works include the Piano Trio, Op. 48, with its overture and variations, and the Paraphrase on Bird of Paradise, Op. 26, which is a continuous piece divided into five sections. The Clarinet Trio, Op. 40, is another highlight, with its three distinct movements: Comodo, Fantastico, and Adagio.
Wood's music has been performed at prestigious events such as the Proms Chamber Music series, and his works have been praised for their emotional resonance and technical sophistication. This album offers a comprehensive overview of his chamber music repertoire, providing listeners with an opportunity to explore the intricate and expressive world of Hugh Wood's compositions.