CRYSTAL RECORDS  -  Woodwind Ensembles (Also see individual instruments)

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CD250: WOODWIND TREASURES, Westwood Wind Quintet.  August Klughardt: Quintet, op. 79; Luciano Berio: Opus Number Zoo; George Heussenstamm: Seven Etudes for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Boris Pillin: Scherzo; Robert Linn: Woodwind Quintet; Herman Stein: Sour Suite.  

  The Quintet by August Klughardt (1847-1902) is as close to Brahms as woodwind ensembles have. This is a lush, Romantic piece and this is the only recording of it. The other pieces were all first recordings and most are still the only recordings available. 
    The Westwood Wind Quintet was founded in 1959 and performed actively for close to 40 years, during which time it gave over 3000 concerts and recorded more than 15 albums. This CD is made from recordings in 1971 and 1981. In the mid-1980s, Daniel Carriaga, music critic with the Los Angeles Times, wrote “An Accumulation of instrumental polish and important repertoire over a long period has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity.” 
UPC 009414725028   BUY NOW    Click here for cover photo and details

Klughardt and Berio: John Barcellona, Flute; Peter Christ, Oboe; David Atkins, Clarinet; Kenneth Meyer, Bassoon; Calvin Smith, Horn.

Other works: Gretel Shanley, Flute; Peter Christ, Oboe; David Atkins, Clarinet; Robert Henderson, Horn; Kay Brightman, Bassoon.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear approximately one minute of the movement shown. 
Klughardt Quintet:  Mvt 1(Allegro non troppo)  Mvt 2(Allegro Vivace)  Mvt3(Andante)  Mvt 4(Adagio)    Berio Opus Number Zoo:   Tom Cats   Grey Mouse   Fawn   Barn Dance    Heussenstam Etudes:  Mvt 1(Andante)  Mvt 2(Allegro assai)  Mvt 3(Allegretto)  Mvt 4(Larghetto)  Mvt 5(Allegro giocoso)  Mvt 6(Allegro)  Mvt 7(Moderato)    Pillin: Scherzo    Linn Quintet:  Mvt 1(Allegro)  Mvt 2(Adagio)  Mvt 3(Allegro)    Stein Sour Suite:  Parade    Larry's Lullaby    Bagatelle    Lucky Seven-Eight

 

CD251: DANZI AND TAFFANEL, Soni Ventorum Wind Quintet. Franz Danzi: Quintets in F Major, op. 68, no. 2; and D Minor, op. 68, no. 3. Paul Taffanel:Wind Quintet in G Minor. The two Danzi Quintets presented here were likely the last two of his nine woodwind quintets. They and the Taffanel Quintet are superb examples of woodwind writing in the early and late 19th century.

Soni Ventorum Wind Quintet was active as a concert and recording ensemble from 1961 through 2001. The group was formed when Pablo Casals asked the players to become the woodwind faculty of his newly founded Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico. For many years Soni Ventorum was the woodwind and horn faculty at the University of Washington. Members on this recording are Felix Skowronek, flute; Laila Storch, oboe; William McColl, clarinet; Arthur Grossman, bassoon; and Christopher Leuba, horn. UPC 009414725127   BUY NOW 

Sound samples (mp3 files)  Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
Danzi: Quintet in F   Mvmt 1   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV    Quintet in D Minor   Mvmt  I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV    Taffanel :Quintet in G Minor   Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III  (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

 

RICHARDS WIND QUINTET, CD252. Three Woodwind Quintets by Johann PeterMüller.  UPC 009414725226.    BUY NOW

 The Richards Quintet was in-residence at Michigan State University, and was one of the first resident wind quintets in the country. The recording was made in 1976 and digitally remastered for CD in 2020. Performers are Israel Borouchoff, flute; Daniel Stolper, oboe; Elsa Ludewig-Verdehr, clarinet; Edgar Kirk, bassoon; Douglas Campbell, horn.

PETER MÜLLER (as he was known) was born in Germany in 1791 and died in 1877. Though he lived in the Romantic era, these pieces are delightfully classical in nature.

Dan Stolper was oboe editor of the International Double Reed Society Journal since its beginning in 1972 and was teacher at Michigan State University and the Interlochen Center for the Arts for 45 years. He died 2020.

“These are charming pieces. The Richards Quintet sports good energy, technique, and phrasing” American Record Guide

“This music is definitely worth checking out, and this recording represents some of the finest quintet playing happening in the US during the 1970s. It is a pleasure to hear Douglas Campbell’s deft horn playing, as he effortlessly navigates the classical scales and arpeggios. To hear him match the speed and lightness of his woodwind colleagues is a joy.” The Horn Call (May 2021)

CD252 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet No.1   Mvt.1 Larghetto, Allegro   Mvt.2 Scherzo   Mvt.3 Larghetto   Mvt.4 Allegro molto     Quintet No.2   Mvt.1 Allegro con brio   Mvt.2Andante con moto   Mvt.3 Menuetto   Mvt.4 Allegro ma non troppo     Quintet No. 3   Mvt.1 Allegro   Mvt.2 Andante Sostenuto   Mvt.3 Menuetto   Mvt.4 Allegro

 

 

EXTRA SPECIAL Limited time: 12-CD SET OF ALL 24 REICHA WOODWIND QUINTETS, OVER 13 HOURS OF GORGEOUS MUSIC, in an attractive box set, ONLY $128. 

 (U.S. media mail shipping is FREE, or $10 Canadian shipping, or $19 other countries) Reicha Box Set CD260  BUY NOW .  To order individual CDs in the set, see CD261-CD272 below.

PLEASE NOTE: Because the 12-CD set of Reicha CDs is already discounted below cost and is sold as a set, we cannot give a further discount of 4 for 3 for the CDs in that set. Thank you for your understanding.

            The International Double Reed Society Journal, Ron Klimko, Editor, wrote: “The Westwood Wind Quintet is one of the finest wind quintets in the world.  I always enjoy hearing the Westwood Wind Quintet. Their performances, as well as their fine recording technique, never disappoints. With all those years of experience playing together, their ensemble is wonderfully precise, clear and always exciting. The latter characteristic of excitement is what I hear most in their performances again and again. Sure, the polish is there, but never at the expense of excitement and an exuberance. When they play, the music truly comes alive!”

            The Flutist Quarterly (Keith Pettway) wrote: “wonderful sense of ensemble. It is seldom that one comes across a recording that with careful listening displays absolutely no major flaws, in performance or engineering. This is such a recording [Reicha vol. 11]. The players understand the music, each other, their instruments, and how they fit into the mix. The result is simply beautiful ensemble playing. The intonation is about as good as it gets when it comes to any chamber music.”

Click here for more information on the Reicha Woodwind Quintet series

 CD261: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 1, Opus 88, Nos. 1 & 2. Westwood Wind Quintet UPC 009414726124    BUY NOW

This, volume one, was the 12th and final release of the 24 Reicha Woodwind Quintets. We are pleased that we now have all 24 of the Reicha Woodwind Quintets performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. This volume has the first two of Reicha’s Quintets, including the most popular op. 88, no. 2. Although the two quintets in this volume are shorter and a bit lighter than the other 22 quintets, they are still masterpieces, symphonic in scope. Opus 88, no. 1 is 21:28 in length. Opus 88, no. 2 is 26:55 in length. “They are both mature works, and have Reicha’s signature beautiful melodies, exciting counterpoint, and thrilling allegros...those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned.” (Ritter, Audiophile Audition). 

The Westwood Wind Quintet has garnered exceptional praise for the series of Reicha Quintets. About a previous volume in the Westwood Wind Quintet’s 12 volume series of the Reicha Woodwind Quintets, the Flutist Quarterly (Pettway) wrote “it is seldom that one comes across a recording that with careful listening displays no major flaws, in performance or engineering. This is such a recording. The players understand the music, each other, their instruments, and how they fit into the mix. The result is simply beautiful ensemble playing.”  

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
(to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in E Minor   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet in Eb Major   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4

CD262: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 2, Opus 88, Nos. 3 & 4. Performed by the  Westwood Wind Quintet.  UPC 009414726223    BUY NOW   

This is the tenth CD in the 12-CD series of the 24 Woodwind Quintets of Anton Reicha. These quintets continue to garner the highest praise from musicians and critics. “These 24 quintets are a pinnacle of achievement, glorious quintets constant freshness, a feeling of unquenchable invention with radiant good humour. The Westwood Wind Quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking.” (International Record Review)

The Westwood Wind Quintet, now in its 52nd season, is “one of the finest wind quintets in the world.” (International Double Reed Society Journal). “One listens to the Westwood Wind Quintet as one listens to the finest of string quartets. It is a complete and completely satisfying musical experience.”  Robert Shaw, formerly conductor, Atlanta Symphony

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.

 Quintet in G Major    Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet in D Minor   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4  (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

CD263: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 3, Opus 88, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. This was the 9th CD released in the 12-CD series of the 24 complete woodwind quintets by Anton Reicha. UPC 009414726322.    BUY NOW  

“each Reicha Quintet is a masterpiece of the highest order. Those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned. These pieces are symphonies in miniature...each one a masterpiece”  Audiophile Audition (Ritter)

Ҕhe players seek, find, and reveal the numerous qualities that have kept Reichaճ Quintets alive for almost two centuries...performances radiate affection for the music and technical virtuosity. Exceptional recordings.Ӽ/i>  Fanfare.

”the Westwood Wind Quintet is one of the finest wind quintets in the world. Their ensemble is wonderfully precise, clear and always exciting. When they play, the music truly comes alive”  International Double Reed Society Journal (Klimko)

“..probably the best group of this kind anywhere” New Orleans Courier
 
Westwood Wind Quinte on this CDt: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Richard Spece, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
Quintet in Bb Major, opus 88, no.5    Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4     Quintet in F Major, opus 88, no.6    Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2  Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4   (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

 

CD264: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 4, Opus 91, Nos. 1 & 2. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726421     BUY NOW

This was the fifth release in Crystal Records' series of Anton Reicha's 24 woodwind quintets. "Reicha...infused content of superb musical worth. Those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned. These pieces are symphonies in miniature, not only in complexity but in length – 40 minutes is not unusual. If you are collecting this series, you can certainly continue with confidence, and all others would do well to dip their hands into Reicha's clean waters."  Steven Ritter, Audiophile Audition 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown

Quintet in C Major, opus 91, no. 1: Mvt.1 Allegro moderato/Andante/Tempo primo   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto   Mvt.4 Finale     Quintet in A Minor, opus 91, no. 2: Mvt.1 Adagio/Allegro assai   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto   Mvt.4 Finale

 

CD265: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 5, Opus 91, Nos. 3 & 4. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726520  BUY NOW

"Westwood's members succeed in capturing the unique qualities of Reicha's quintets and do so in a manner that indicates their admiration and respect for the repertoire. The players seek, find, and reveal the numerous qualities that have kept this repertoire alive for almost two centuries."  Carter, Fanfare Magazine 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

“Both the quality of composition and the playing of the recording are of a high quality and I recommend it as a good example of Reicha’s quintets.” Australian Clarinet and Saxophone (Melissa Carter)

CD265 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

Quintet in D Major, opus 91, no. 3: Mvt.1 Lento; Allegro Assai   Mvt.2 Adagio   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Allegro vivo   Mvt.4 Finale. Allegretto     Quintet in G Minor, opus 91, no. 4: Mvt.1 Andante; Allegro Assai   Mvt.2 Adagio cantabile   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Allegro   Mvt.4 Finale

 CD266: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets,Vol. 6, Opus 91, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726629  BUY NOW

"The performances radiate affection for the music and technical virtuosity. This delightful disc rates a high recommendation."  Story, Fanfare Magazine 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Jack Herrick, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.
CD266 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

Quintet in A Major, opus 91, no. 5: Mvt.1 Allegro   Mvt.2 Poco Adagio   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Allegro   Mvt.4 Finale. Allegro Vivace     Quintet in C Minor, opus 91, no. 6: Mvt.1 Marcia. Poco Adagio; Allegro Vivace   Mvt.2 Larghetto   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Vivace   Mvt.4 Finale

CD267: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 7, Opus 99, Nos. 1 & 2. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726728     BUY NOW

This was the third release in Crystal's exciting project of recording the complete 24 Reicha Woodwind Quintets. "...both the ear and intellect are gratified by these quintets. The performances are worthy of the Westwood Wind Quintet's reputation." Raymond Tuttle, International Record Review 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

“The Westwood Wind Quintet performs these works with real integrity and the approach is serious but never dour. The ensemble sound is excellent, well balanced, warm and round and with a clear understanding of the music of Reicha.” Australian Clarinet and Saxophone (Brian Catchlove)

CD267 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in C Major, opus 99, no. 1: Mvt.1 Lento; Allegro   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Allegro scherzo   Mvt.4 Finale     Quintet in F Minor, opus 91, no. 2:Mvt.1 Larghetto; Allegro   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto   Mvt.4 Finale

CD268: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 8, Op. 99, Nos. 3 & 4.  Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726827     BUY NOW   

This was the 7th release (released July 2009) in the series of 12 CDs of the 24 woodwind quintets by Anton Reicha. The Westwood Wind Quintet has completed the recordings of all 24 quintets. Reicha (1770-1836) was one of the most respected composers of his time. He was a friend of Beethoven and Haydn, and was the teacher of Berlioz, Liszt, Gounod, and Franck. 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Richard Spece, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

CD268 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in A Major, opus 99, no. 3: Mvt.1 Lento; Allegro   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Allegro   Mvt.4 Finale. Andante; Allegro poco vivace     Quintet in D Major, opus 91, no. 4:Mvt.1 Andante; Allegro spirituoso   Mvt.2 Poco lento   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Scherzo   Mvt.4 Finale. Allegro assai

 

CD269: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 9, Opus 99, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726926     BUY NOW

This was the fourth release of Reicha quintets. "Crystal Record's devotion to Reicha's woodwind quintets is estimable.  [These works] are big, sonorous and large-scale ones published in 1822 and fully deserving of reclamation in such expert hands as these. 
         The opening of Op.99 No. 5 floats in with the most beautiful and well balanced Andante – a Siciliano of dappled loveliness. The ensuing tumbling, flowing and exciting extroversion is the perfect riposte: an Allegro of ravenous yet decorous masculinity. It shows how finely perched these works are between introspection and well-wrought, technically accomplished self-projection. They're also formally always of the highest interest, playing tricks with harmony, structure, form and keys so subtly that you would barely notice. 
         Reicha was a master of the form and wrote voraciously for woodwind quintet. This series is shaping up to be a major contribution on record...big, symphonic quintets, cleanly delineated, finely played and bursting with classical ideas and expertise." MusicWeb International (Jonathan Woolf) 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Dileep Gangolli, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

CD269 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in B Minor, opus 99, no. 5: Mvt.1 Andante; Allegro   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Allegro   Mvt.4 Finale. Lento; Allegro spirituoso     Quintet in G Major, opus 99, no. 6: Mvt.1 Andante; Allegro poco vivo   Mvt.2 Air en fantaisie. Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto. Allegro   Mvt.4 Finale. Allegro vivo

CD270: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets,Vol. 10, Opus 100, Nos. 1 & 2.  Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414727022    BUY NOW

This was the eighth release in Crystal Records' series of Anton Reicha's 24 woodwind quintets. (Released November 2009.)
 
Westwood Wind Quinte on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Dileep Gangolli, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.
Quintet in F, opus 100, no. 1   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4     Quintet in D Minor, op 100, no.2  Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4   (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

CD271: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets,Vol. 11, Opus 100, Nos. 3 & 4.  Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414727121    BUY NOW

This was the sixth release in Crystal Records' series of Anton Reicha's 24 woodwind quintets. (Released Sept. 2008.) 

The Westwood Wind Quintet has now recorded all 24 of the 24 quintets. 

”It is seldom that one comes across a recording that with careful listening displays no major flaws, in performance or engineering. This is such a recording. The players understand the music, each other, their instruments, and how they fit into the mix. The result is simply beautiful ensemble playing.” The Flutist Quarterly (Pettway) 
Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

CD271 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in Eb Major, opus 100, no. 3: Mvt.1 Andante; Allegro poco vivo   Mvt.2 Lento   Mvt.3 Minuetto. Allegro scherzo   Mvt.4 Finale. Allegro     Quintet in E Minor, opus 100, no.4:Mvt.1 Adagio; Allegro   Mvt.2 Andante con variazioni   Mvt.3 Minuetto. Allegro vivo   Mvt.4 Finale. Allegro vivo

 

CD272: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 12, Opus 100, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414727220    BUY NOW   

“This was the 11th release in the 12 volume set of Reicha Woodwind Quintets (released October 2011). This volume has the last two of Reicha’s monumental 24 woodwind quintets. They are symphonies in scope,..each one a masterpiece. Those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned.” Ritter, Audiophile Audition. This CD is just under 80 minutes long. 

“The two quintets are mature works, with wonderful fugues and counterpoint, along with Reicha’s gorgeous melodies. Reicha was the teacher of Liszt, Berlioz, Adam, Gounod, and Franck, and was one of the most influential and respected composers of the period. The Westwood Wind quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking”  International Record Review. 

“Fantastic playing by all 5 soloists! Virtuosic in the 2nd mvt. variations of the quintet no. 5. Beautiful phrasing, great music making. Calvin Smith his horn playing is smooth- beautiful and he is a one of a kind virtuoso. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE VERY FINE  WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.”  – Jose Zarzo, principal horn, Gran CanariaPhilharmonic (Spain)

The Horn Call (Eldon Matlock, reviewer) said “The soloists of the Westwood Quintet are magnificent performers, and it is a joy to hear such a long-standing ensemble present these marvelous works.”  

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in A Minor, opus 100, no. 5   Mvmt 1: Lento  Mvmt 1: Allegro   Mvmt 2:  Andante (theme)  Variation 1 (horn)  Variation 2 (bassoon)  Variation 3 (oboe)  Variation 4 (clarinet)  Variation 5 (flute)   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet in Bb Major, opus 100, no. 6   Mvmt 1: Poco adagio  Mvmt 1: Allegro   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4: Andante Mvmt 4: Allegro assai

 

CD353: Sextuor à Vent. Harvey Pittel, Alto Saxophone; Westwood Wind Quintet. Darius Milhaud: Scaramouche for Saxophone and Woodwind Quintet; Bernhard Heiden: Intrada for Saxophone and Woodwind Quintet; Paul Hindemith: Concert Piece for Two Saxophones (with Sunil Gadgil, saxophone); Pierre Max Dubois: Sinfonia da Camera (for Saxophone and Woodwind Quintet); Jacques Ibert: Trois Pièces Brèves (first movement) – for Woodwind Quintet; J.S. Bach: Fugue from the Well Tempered Clavier (arr. for Woodwind Trio); Rossini: Quartet no. 1 in F (first movement) – for Flute, Clarinet, Horn, and Bassoon; Paul De Wailly: Aubade for Flute, Oboe, and Clarinet; Adrien Barthe: Passacaille for Woodwind Quintet; Malcolm Arnold: Divertimento for Flute, Oboe, and Clarinet (first movement); Rimsky-Korsakov: Flight of the Bumble-Bee (arr. for Woodwind Quintet); Leo Sowerby: Pop Goes the Weasel (adapted by the Westwood Wind Quintet). 
"Harvey Pittel [is a] master of his instrument...the most beautiful and pure tone I have ever heard from a saxophone." New York Times
The Westwood Wind  Quintet is "probably the best group of this kind anywhere." New Orleans Courier
"Delightful music, winningly played." Fanfare Magazine UPC 009414735324    BUY NOW   

Westwood Wind Quintet: Gretel Shanley, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; and Kenneth Munday, bassoon.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
Milhaud: Scaramouche  I: Vif    II: Modéré    III: Brazileira     Heiden:  Intrada     Hindemith: Concert Piece for Two Saxophones  I: Lebhaft   II: Mässig langsam   III: Lebhaft Dubois: Sinfonia da Camera  I: Entrée   II: Gigue en rondeau   III: Variations     Ibert:   Trois Pièces Brèves (first mvmt)     Bach/arr. Atkins:  Fugue     Rossini:  Quartet no.1 in F (first mvmt) Wailly:  Aubade     Barthe:  Passacaille     Arnold: Divertimento (first mvmt)      Rimsky-Korsakov:  Flight of the Bumble-Bee     Sowerby:  Pop Goes the Weasel   (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

BONUS: To have a little joy to help alleviate CoronaVirus anxiety, hear the entire Flight of the Bumble-Bee by Rimsky-Korsakov, Westwood Wind Quintet  Rimsky-Korsakov Flight of the Bumble-Bee

 

CD354: THEN AND NOW, Weiss Family Woodwinds. Dawn Weiss, Flute; David Weiss, Oboe; Abraham Weiss, Bassoon. With Zita Carno, Piano. Vivaldi: Sonata in G Minor (flute, oboe, bassoon, harpsichord); Messiaen: Le Merle Noir (flute, piano); Bourdeau: Premier Solo (bassoon, piano); Hindemith: Sonata (oboe, piano); Tomas Svoboda: Trio (flute, oboe, bassoon); Worthey: Sandcastles (flute, oboe, bassoon). 

Dawn Weiss was principal flute 25 for years with the Oregon Symphony. David Weiss was principal oboe for 30 years with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Abraham Weiss is principal bassoon with the Rochester Philharmonic (40 years). The Svoboda and Worthey pieces were recorded live at their world premieres on April 3, 2010 at the University of Southern California. The other pieces were originally on Crystal Records LP S354, released in 1978, and digitally remastered for this CD in 2010. UPC 009414735423    BUY NOW   

“played superbly, marvelous sensitivity” Fanfare

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.

Vivaldi: Sonata in G Minor  Allegro ma cantabile   Largo   Allegro molto    Messiaen: La Merle Noir    Bourdeau: Premier Solo    Hindemith: Sonata  Munter   Sehr Langsam; Lebhaft    Svoboda: Trio  Andante   Vivace   Lento   Vivace   Andante maestoso    Worthey: Sandcastles    (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

CD356: TOUR DE FRANCE, Webster Trio. Leone Buyse, Flute; Michael Webster, Clarinet; Katherine Collier, Piano. Gabriel Faure: Dolly Suite (flute, clarinet, and piano; trans. Webster); Faure: Morceau de concours (flute and piano; arr. Hulme-Brieff); Saint-Saëns: Tarantella, op. 6, (flute, clarinet, and piano); Debussy: Petite Piece & Premiere Rhapsodie (clarinet and piano), Syrinx (solo flute), and Prelude à l'apres-midi d'un faune (flute, clarinet and piano; trans Webster); Georges Bizet: Jeux d'enfants, (flute/piccolo, clarinet, and piano; trans Webster).  UPC 009414735621    BUY NOW     Click here for cover photo and details

“a charming entertainment”  Fanfare

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) lick on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Faure Dolly Ste.:  Mvt 1 (Berceuse)   Mvt 2 (Mi-a-ou)   Mvt 3 (Le jardin)   Mvt 4 (Kitty Valse)   Mvt 5 (Tendresse)    Mvt 6(Spanish Dance)    Faure: Morceau de concours    Saint- Saëns: Tarantella    Debussy: Petit Piece    Premiere Rhapsodie    Syrinx    Prelude à l’apres-midi d’un faune    Bizet: Jeux d’enfants  The Swing   The Top   The Doll   Merry-Go -Round    Shuttlecock    Trumpet and Drum   Soap Bubbles   Puss in the Corner   Blindman's Bluff   Leapfrog   Little Husband, Little Wife   The Ball

CD357: WORLD WIDE WEBSTER.  The Webster Trio (Leone Buyse, Flute; Michael Webster, Clarinet; Robert Moeling, Piano). Antonin Dvorak: Slavonic Dances;  Claude Debussy: Petite Suite; Johannes Brahms: Hungarian Dances; Louis Moreau Gottschalk: Four Pieces (La Jota Aragonesa, Souvenir de la Havane, Souvenir de Cuba, Grande Tarantelle). 

Leone Buyse is former principal flutist with the Boston Symphony. Michael Webster is former principal clarinetist with the Rochester Philharmonic and the San Francisco Symphony.  Robert Moeling is an international soloist and chamber musician. They are now based at the Shepherd School of Music in Houston, Texas. The works are superb, exciting transcriptions by Michael Webster from four-hand piano literature. 

"World Wide Webster is a fine new offering...These three musicians play as one, and their sense of ensemble and creative interpretations define the essence of chamber music.” Flute Talk "Performances here are excellent, with a seamless match between the two winds, and a coherent blend with Robert Moeling's buoyant piano textures. Recordings are very fine, and give a notably clear reproduction of Leone Buyse's distinctive, clear and, well, fluting tone..." Paul Ingram, Fanfare. UPC 09414735720    BUY NOW

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Antonin Dvorak: Slavonic Dances  Presto  (op.46,no.8)  Moderato (op.72,no.14)  Poco adagio (op.72,no.13)  Allegretto grazioso (op.72,no.12)  Poco allegro  (op.46,no.6)  Claude Debussy: Petite Suite En bateau Cortege   Menuet   Ballet   Johannes Brahms: Hungarian Dances  No. 6  (Vivace) No.16 (Con moto)  No.14 (Un poco andante)  No.13  (Andanta grazioso)  No.5  (Allegro)  No.7  (Allegretto)  No.21  (Vivace)  Louis Moreau Gottschalk: La Jota Aragonesa  Souvenir de la Havane  Souvenir de Cuba  Grande Tarantelle

BONUS: To have a little joy to help alleviate CoronaVirus anxiety, hear the entire Dvorak Slavonic Dance No. 1, Presto, played by the Webster Trio.

 

CD358: PAS de TROIS.  Kenneth Tse, Saxophone; Benjamin Coelho, Bassoon; Alan Huckleberry, Piano. Bernard Van Beurden: Pas de trois;  Jindrich Feld: Trio Giocoso; David Froom: Arirang Variations; Perry Goldstein: Noir; Don Freund: Louder than Words. 

Saxophone, Bassoon, and Piano is an unusual combination that creates an exciting and vibrant sound. The works on this CD represent some of the finest writing for this combination, and the performers are three of the best practitioners of their art.

Kenneth Tse "plays with seductive tonal beauty" (American Record Guide) and is "a brilliant saxophonist...worthy of any stage in the world." (Eugene Rousseau). Benjamin Coelho's "playing is unfailingly sonorous, expressive and alert." (Gramophone) Alan Huckleberry has "technical mastery and interpretive panache." (Fanfare)  The three musicians are on the faculty at the University of Iowa and perform internationally. UPC 009414735829   BUY NOW

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.
Van Beurden: Pas de trois:  Ouverture   Pastorale   Tarantella   Feld: Trio Giocoso:  Allegro   Andante   Allegro vivo    Froom:  Arirang Variations    Goldstein:  Noir    Freund:  Louder than Words:  Part I   Part II

 

CD601: NIELSEN, HINDEMITH, SCHULHOFF. The Westwood Wind Quintet. Carl Nielsen: Quintet, op. 43; Paul Hindemith: Kleine Kammermusik für fünfBläser, op.24, no. 2; Erwin Schulhoff: Divertissement for Oboe, Clarinet, & Bassoon. 

 Westwood Wind Quintet: Gretel Shanley, Flute; Peter Christ, Oboe; David Atkins, Clarinet; Allen Guse, Horn; David Breidenthal, Bassoon.
 
         High Fidelity Magazine, speaking of this recording of Nielsen and Hindemith Quintets, wrote "Extraordinary tone quality. The Westwood performers manifest a technical finesse and a richness of tone that one would normally expect only from a solo concerto artist. I cannot imagine a better performance than the one given here by the Westwood Wind Quintet." UPC 009414760128    BUY NOW

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Nielsen: Quintet Mvt 1 (Allegro Ben Moderato) Mvt 2(Menuet) Mvt 3 (Praeludium & Theme and Variations) 
Hindemith: Kleine Kammermusik Mvt 1 (Lustig, Massig schnelle Viertel) Mvt 2 (Walzer, Durchweg sehr leise) Mvt 3 (Ruhig und einfach. 
Achtel) Mvt 4 (Schnelle Viertel) Mvt 5 (Sehr lebhaft)    Schulhoff: Divertissement Mvt 1 (Ouverture) Mvt 2 (Burlesca) Mvt 3 (Romanzero) Mvt 4 
(Charleston) Mvt 5 (Tema con Variazioni e fugato) Mvt 6 (Florida) Mvt 7 (Rondino-Finale)

 

CD646: MOZART SERENADE NO. 10 IN Bb, K. 361 for 12 Winds and Double Bass. Toronto Chamber Winds, Winston Webber, Conductor.  UPC 00941476462.   BUY NOW

Mozart's Serenade No. 10 in Bb, K.361, for 12 Winds and Double Bass, is a masterpiece in every respect. It is one of his longest instrumental works  and is a musical blockbuster. It is written for 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 basset horns, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, and double bass. The Toronto Chamber winds include members of the Toronto Symphony, the Canadian Ballet Orchestra, and the Hamilton Philharmonic. Oboes: Harry Sargous, David Sussman; Clarinets: James Campbell, Gwillym Williams; Basset Horns: David Bourque, Daniel Leeson; Bassoons: Christopher Weait, Mitchell Clarke; Horns: R. Scott Wilson, Miles Hearn, Wayne Jeffrey, Gary Pattison; Double Bass: Peter Madgett.

         Serenade K. 361, Over 49 minutes, consists of seven movements of extraordinary contrast, requiring unusual instrumental resources whose characteristic colors were exploited as never before and rarely since. This performance by the Toronto Chamber Winds is one of the only recorded performances that adheres to the original Mozart manuscript. There are many differences between this and the corrupted versions that are usually heard and have been recorded previously.

This recording was originally on Crystal LP S646, released 1982, and was the first recording of the work under the guidance of Daniel Leeson, who was one of the editors of the Serenade for the Bärenreiter publication of the complete edition of Mozart’s music. The performance is embellished in a style appropriate to the time of composition.

“This recording represents the best in North American wind performance.”  The Horn Call (Chris Leuba)

“The performing on this recording is exquisite. Lyrical, sonorous, perfectly balanced, the musicians are all to be lauded for this hallmark achievement. For an exemplary recording of the Gran Partita, one need look no further.”  The Horn Call (Lydia Van Dreel)

“the composer’s crowning achievement in the serenade genre, an undisputed masterpiece…a fine performance. The Toronto Chamber Winds are more than worthy for serious consideration.”  Fanfare (Jerry Dubins)

“interpretation by the Toronto Chamber Winds of this masterpiece is exemplary…lively, refined, and spiritual…remarkable virtuosity and an irreproachable musicality.” Sonances (Jacques Boulay)

“Masterfully performed… lush performance and a master-class in knowing when to lead and when to get out of the way. This is a worthy addition to every band director's collection and teachers should make a point of sharing this with their double reed, clarinet, and horn players.” Instrumentalist (April 2020)

“The playing is polished and professional; and the group produces a rich and resonant sound. Solo passages are clear and lyrical; and the accompanying lines have excellent balance and rhythm.”  American Record Guide (July/August 2020, Hanudel)

CD646 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Serenade in Bb, K. 361 (370a)   I. Largo; Allegro molto   II. Menuetto;Trio 1,Trio 2   III. Adagio_sample.mp3   IV. Menuetto; Trio 1, Trio 2   V. Romanze   VI. Thema_mit_Variationen   VII. Finale:Rondo Allegro molto

BONUS: To have a little joy to help alleviate CoronaVirus anxiety, hear the entire Finale of the Mozart Serenade K.361. Toronto Chamber Winds, Winston Webber, Conductor. 

 

CD647: VIOLA AND THE WINDS. James Dunham, Viola; Westwood Wind Quintet; Jack Sanders, Guitar. Gustav Holst: Terzetto for Flute, Oboe, & Viola; Jerzy Sapieyevski: Concerto for Viola and Winds; Anthony Plog: Four Miniatures for Viola and Wind Quintet; Karl Kohn: Colla Voce for Viola and Guitar.  UPC 009414764720.  BUY NOW    Click Here for CD cover photo and details.

James Dunham was violist with the Grammy Award winning Cleveland Quartet. He presently teaches at the Shepherd School of Music in Houston, Texas.

The Westwood Wind Quintet, founded in 1959, has performed thousands of concerts and has been described as "probably the best group of this kind anywhere." New Orleans Courier.  “the reputation of the Westwood Wind Quintet is once more re-asserted by their playing on this recording.” IDRS Journal.   

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Kenneth Meyer, bassoon.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Sapieyevski: Concerto    Holst Terzetto:  Mvt 1(Allegretto)  Mvt 2(Un poco vivace)    Plog Miniatures:  Mvt 1(Pastoral)  Mvt 2(Toccata)  Mvt 3(Chorale)  Mvt 4(Allegro)    Kohn: Colla Voce

CD717 – AMERICAN WEBSTER. Libby Larsen, Barn Dances; Robert Sirota, Birds of Paradise; Anthony Brandt, Round Top Trio; Richard Toensing, Children of Light; Paul Schoenfeld, Sonatina. UPC 009414771728   BUY NOW     

Leone Buyse Flute; Michael Webster, Clarinet; Robert Moeling, Piano. Click here for CD cover photo and Webster Trio details.

Libby Larsen is one of America’s most performed living composers, having created a catalog of over 500 works. She was a Grammy Award winner and has established a permanent place for her works in concert repertory. Similarly the other composers are recognized as tops in their field. These are premiere recordings of works written and/or premiered by the Webster Trio.

The Webster Trio is in-residence at the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Leone Buyse was previously principal flute with the Boston Symphony and Michael Webster was principal clarinet with the San Francisco Symphony. Robert Moeling is an acclaimed chamber pianist and soloist. These are premiere recordings of works most of which were written for the Webster Trio.

“This line-up of lollipops yields light and sexy delights.” Gramophone

CD717 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Larsen: Barn Dances  I. Forward Six and Fall Back Eight   II. Divide the Ring   III. Varsouvianna   IV. Rattleshake Twist    Sirota: Birds of Paradise    Brandt:  Round Top Trio    Toensing: Children of Light  I. Dawn Processional   II. Song of the Morning Stars   III. The Robe of Light   IV. Silver Lightning, Golden Rain   V. Phos Hilarioin    Schoenfeld:  Sonatina  I. Charleston   II. Rag   III. Jig

 

CD750: WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.  Samuel Barber: Summer Music; Gyorgi Ligeti: Six Bagatelles; William Mathias: Quintet;  Mark Carlson: Nightwings (tape & woodwind quintet).  UPC 009414775023    BUY NOW
 

 “Magnificent American group. Superlative playing...a recording which, equally good in tone-quality, balance and clarity, can also be described as superlative.” Gramophone Magazine (London) 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet; Kenneth Meyer, bassoon; Calvin Smith, horn.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer)Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Ligeti Bagatelles:   Allegro   Rubato   Allegro   Presto   Adagio   Molto Vivace    Barber: Summer Music    Mathias: Quintet  Mvt 1(Intro and March)  Mvt 2(Waltz)  Mvt 3(Scherzo)  Mvt 4(Elegy)  Mvt 5(Recitative and Dance)    Carlson: Nightwings

 

CD751: WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.  Ingolf Dahl: Allegro and Arioso; Karel Husa: Serenade for Piano and Wind Quintet; Jerzy Sapieyevski: Arioso for Trumpet and Wind Quintet; Louis Moyse: Quintet.  UPC 009414775122   BUY NOW

 Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet, David Muller, bassoon; and Joseph Meyer, horn. With Lisa Bergman, piano; Richard Pressley, trumpet. 

"..an accumulation of instrumental polish & important repertory over a long period has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity." Los Angeles Times. "As usual, the Westwood Wind Quintet plays with spirit, finesse, polish, and magnificent articulation. Very fine recording." Fanfare.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Dahl: Allegro and Arioso    Husa Serenade:  Mvt 1(La Montagne)   Mvt 2(La Nuit)   Mvt 3(La Danse)    Sapieyevski: Arioso    Moyse:  Quintet  Mvt 1(Allegro)   Mvt 2(Poco Lento)   Mvt 3(Presto)   Mvt 4(Allegro molto vivo)

CD752: WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.  Bergsma: Concerto for Wind Quintet; Rochberg: To the Dark Wood; Carter: Woodwind Quintet 1948; Biggs: Scherzo; Plog: Animal Ditties; Schuller: Suite; Schuman: Dances for Woodwind Quintet and Percussion with Matthew Kocmieroski, percussion.  UPC 009414775221    BUY NOW

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Muller, bassoon; David Atkins, clarinet; and Joseph Meyer, horn.

“A feast of ...virtuoso music for winds. Performances are excellent.” In-Tune Magazine. “A superb performing group; first-rate in every way.” Washington D.C. Sunday Star

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer)Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Bergsma Concerto:  Mvt 1(Allegro)  Mvt 2(Andante)  Mvt 3(Allegro assai)    Rochberg:  To the Dark Wood    Carter Quintet: Mvt 1(Allegretto)  Mvt 2   Niggs: Scherzo    Plog: Animal Ditties  Mvt 1(Osterich)  Mvt 2(Guppies)  Mvt 3(Canary)   Mvt 4(Kangaroo)  Mvt 5(Fly)    Schuller: Suite  Prelude  Blues  Toccata    Schuman:  Dances

 

CD753: WIND CHAMBER MUSIC OF THEODOR BLUMER. Quintett, Op. 52; Sextett (Originalthema mit Veränderungen), Op. 45; Tanz-Suite, Op. 53. Moran Woodwind Quintet: John Bailey, flute; William McMullen, oboe: Eric Ginsberg, clarinet; Gary Echols, bassoon; and Allen French, horn. With Shirley Irek, piano.   UPC 009414775320    BUY NOW    Click here for cover photo and details

“I found this disc quite refreshing and enlightening. [Blumer's] lush, late romantic style reminds me of Richard Strauss.” American Record Guide.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Quintett Op. 52:  Mvt 1(Sehr frisch)  Mvt 2(Romanze)   Mvt 3(Leicht fliebend)   Mvt 4(Finale)   Sextett: Mvt 1(Thema)  Mvt 2(Improvisation)   Mvt 3(Capriccio)   Mvt 4(Pastorale)   Mvt 5(Slavischer Tanz)   Mvt 6(Romance)   Mvt 7(Humoreske)   Mvt 8(Finale)    Tanz Suite: Mvt 1(Rigaudon)   Mvt 2(Sarabande)   Mvt 3(Menuett)   Mvt 4(Ungarischer Tanz)   Mvt 5(Valse Boston)   Mvt 6(One Step)

 

CD754: POSTCARDS FROM THE CENTER. Moran Woodwind Quintet. Katherine Ann Murdock: Postcards from the Center; Bernhard Heiden: Woodwind Quintet; Peter Lieuwen: Savannah; Jennifer Higdon: Autumn Music. The Moran Quintet is in residence at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. UPC 009414775429    BUY NOW

“playing is excellent. Well worth exploring.”  Gramophone

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer)Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Lieuwen: Savannah   Murdock Postcards: Mvt 1(Prairie Sentinal)  Mvt 2(Interstate 70)  Mvt 3(Kansas Winter)   Mvt 4(Punching Cattle)  Mvt 5(Fireworks)    Higdon: Autumn Music    Heiden: Quintet  Mvt 1(Variations)  Mvt 2(Capriccio)  Mvt 3(Intermezzo)  Mvt 4(Finale)

 

CD755: WOODWIND MUSIC BY THEODOR BLUMER. Performed by the Moran Woodwind Quintet. Theodor Blumer's Schweizer Quintett; Kinderspielzeug, op. 64; and Sextett, op. 92, with pianist Paul Barnes. Theodor Blumer (1881-1964) writes in a Romantic style. He is a German composer who lived most of his life in Dresden, Leipzig, and Berlin. The music is extremely attractive and recently has drawn much interest to American audiences.  UPC 00941475528  BUY NOW

"Once again the Moran woodwind Quintet...splendidly brings these substantial works into our ears, with brilliance, effervescence and sophistication." The Clarinet, June 2005. "The Moran Woodwind Quintet...play Blumer's music with superb attention to phrasing and ensemble finesse. The performances overflow with purposeful expressivity." Gramophone. 

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Schweizer Quintett: Mvt 1 (Prelude)   Mvt 2 (Gavotte)   Mvt 3 (Arietta)   Mvt 4 (Introduktion)   Mvt 5 (Thema) Variation 1   Variation 2   Variation 3   Variation 4   Variation 5   Variation 6   Variation 7    Kinderspielzeug:  Mvt 1 (Ball) Mvt 2 (Teddybar) Mvt 3  (Puppe) Mvt 4  (Aufmarsch der Puppen) Mvt 5 (Alte Spieluhr) Mvt 6 (Schlitten)    Sextett:  Mvt 1 (Allegro ma no troppo) Mvt 2 (Scherzo: Presto)  Mvt 3 (Andante sostenuto) Mvt 4 (Rondo, Molto vivace)

CD756: CAMERATA WOODWIND QUINTET.  Jacques Hetú: Quintette, opus 13; Anthony Iannaccone: Woodwind Quintet No. 2, Scenes after Hart Crane; John Steinmetz: Quintet.  UPC 009414775627    BUY NOW    Click here for cover photo and details

Stellar new works for woodwind quintet, which may come to be regarded as masterworks for the genre, performed by the Camerata Woodwind Quintet, ensemble-in-residence at Western Illinois University since 1966.The group regularly tours the U.S. and Europe, presenting commissioned works as well as traditional repertoire. 

“a really top-notch ensemble, and they have chosen great pieces.” American Record Guide

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
H_(c)tu: Quintette, opus 13   Mvmt 1  Mvmt 2  Mvmt 3  Mvmt 4     Iannaccone: Woodwind Quintet No. 2 The Bridge   The Harbor   Dawn   Atlantis     Steinmetz: Quintet  Prelude   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4   Mvmt 5   Mvmt 6

CD757: THEODOR BLUMER Woodwind Music, Vol. 3.  John Bailey, Flute, Mark Clinton, Piano, Moran Woodwind Quintet. Serenade and Theme and Variations, op. 34 for Woodwind Quintet. Ten Waltzes (Hausmusik), op. 56 for Flute and Piano. From the Animal Kingdom, op. 57a for Flute and Piano. From the Plant World, op. 57b for Flute and Piano. Theodor Blumer (1881-1964) was director and principal conductor of the Dresden Radio Orchestra and the Middle German Radio Orchestra in Leipzig.  UPC 009414775724    BUY NOW

“Blumer’s lush, late-romantic style reminds me of Richard Strauss. [His music] is refreshing and enlightening.” American Record Guide.   

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Serenade   Theme and Variations  Waltz 1  Waltz 2  Waltz 3  Waltz 4  Waltz 5  Waltz 6  Waltz 7  Waltz 8  Waltz 9  Waltz 10    From the Animal World:  Mvt 1  Mvt 2  Mvt 3  Mvt 4  Mvt 5  Mvt 6      From the Plant World:   Mvt 1  Mvt 2  Mvt 3  Mvt 4  Mvt 5  Mvt 6

CD758: ALEC WILDER Woodwind Quintets 5, 7, 8, 10, & 12. Solaris Woodwind Quintet.  UPC 009414775825.    BUY NOW     

Alec Wilder (1907-1980) had a reputation in many genres of music. He first made a name as a composer of popular song. His classical works were performed often, and he even had a recording with Frank Sinatra conducting. The Solaris Wind Quintet , since its formation in 1976 as ensemble-in-residence at the University of Akron, has established a reputation as one of the foremost woodwind quintets in the world, with tours throughout the United States and in Italy, Brazil, and Sweden.

“The works leave the listener with a feeling of great happiness.” Audiophile Audition

“The performances are terrific”  Flute Talk

CD758 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Quintet No. 5   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet No. 10  Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet No. 12  Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4   Mvmt 5    Quintet No. 8  Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet No. 7  Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4

 

CD759: RAINBOW SUNDAE, Westwood Wind Quintet. Trios, Quartets, and Quintet. Nikolai Tschemberdschi: Concertino for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Joao Guilherme Ripper: Wind Trio for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Arthur Berger: Quartet for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Walter Piston: Three Pieces for Flute, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Walter Hartley: Woodwind Quartet for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Martin Scot Kosins: Rainbow Sundae for Woodwind Quintet.  UPC 009414775924.  BUY NOW     

This CD features some of the most interesting and appealing music for woodwinds from the 20th century. Incorporating different styles, the six works are marvels of woodwind writing. 

The Tschemberdschi piece is little known but is a wonderful example of Russian composition from the mid-20th century. There is nothing else quite like it for woodwinds. South American beauty and rhythms permeate Ripper’s delightful Trio, and Berger’s Quartet was called “one of the most satisfactory pieces for winds in the whole modern repertory” by Virgil Thomson. Walter Piston’s Three Pieces is a wonderful trio that deserves more hearings. Walter Hartley is well-known for his marvelous writing for winds. Martin Scot Kosins’ Rainbow Sundae is a very listenable work in the style of his other pieces, some of which have become favorites on Crystal.

     The Westwood Wind Quintet, founded n 1959, is possibly the most-esteemed wind quintet in the world. Having just released the well-received 12-CD set of the complete 24 Quintets by Anton Reicha, the group has garnered rave reviews from critics and the public for its more than 27 albums, starting with the ground-breaking recording of the Schönberg Wind Quintet on Columbia Records (now Sony), through the Nielsen, Hindemith, Barber, Dahl, etc., Quintets, and now this Rainbow Sundae. 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Patricia Nelson, bassoon; John Cox, horn.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Tschemberdschi  Concertino: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV    Ripper  Wind Trio: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III    Berger  Quartet in C Major: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III    Piston  Three Pieces: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III    Hartley  Woodwind Quartet:  Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV  Mvmt V    Kosins  Rainbow Sundaes: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV   Mvmt V

 

CD790 – FATE & FIRE: Alvin Etler, Woodwind Quintets Nos. 1 & 2; Dan Welcher, Woodwind Quintet No. 2; Dan Welcher, The Moerae, for Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, and Piano. Westwood Wind Quintet (John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; John Cox, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon) with Lisa Bergman, Piano. UPC 009414779021.    BUY NOW      

The Moerae deals with the fate of humanity, and fire is displayed by the intensity of that piece and the Quintets by Etler and Welcher. All of these works are either now or will be stalwart standards of woodwind literature. PLEASE PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THIS RELEASE. We are particularly proud of the recordings on this CD. We have been told by the many people that have heard them that the CD is not only one of the best woodwind recordings ever made but stands up with the best of any kind of classical recording. All the spirits were with us: repertoire, performance, sound, recording all clicked.
         The two Etler Quintets are staples in the woodwind quintet literature and have long been thought to be woodwind masterpieces. The Welcher Quintet No. 2 will also gain that stature. While we were recording this all the members of the Westwood Wind Quintet felt that it is probably one of the two or three best quintets ever written. The Moerae, with its interesting instrumentation, fascinating story line, and beautiful melodies, is a true work of art. “The Moerae” are the three fates who spin the thread of life, measure it, and cut it when they please. 
         The works were all recorded in late 2014. This is a world premiere recording of Welcher’s The Moerae and Quintet No. 2. “[Welcher’s Quintet] enchants at every poetic and colorful turn of phrase.” Gramophone. The Moerae, with its fascinating story line and beautiful melodies, is a true work of art. It “vibrantly evokes the mythological Greek take of the three fates.” Gramophone

“a most stimulating release, beautifully recorded.” Fanfare

The Westwood Wind Quintet, established in 1959, has “an accumulation of instrumental polish and important repertory over a long period [which] has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity” – Los Angeles Times. “The Westwood Wind Quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking.” – International Record Review

CD790 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Welcher  The Moerae    Etler   Woodwind Quintet No. 1    Andante   Allegro   Lento   Vivace    Woodwind Quintet No. 2   Andante con moto   Allegro commodo   Adagio   Vivace    Welcher  Woodwind Quintet No. 2  Driven, Intense   Adagio   Passacaglia

 

 

CD791: Westwood Wind Quintet “Augmented”. Westwood Wind Quintet (John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; John Cox, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon) with Doug Reneau, trumpet; Carol Robe, bass clarinet; Lisa Bergman, piano.   UPC 009414779120.    BUY NOW     

Paul Hindemith, Septet for woodwind quintet, trumpet, and bass clarinet; William Mathias, Concertino for flute, oboe, bassoon, and piano; Bruce Stark, Americana Wind Quintet; Leoš JanáĊek, Mládi (Jugend) for woodwind quintet and bass clarinet. Photo of Mt. Hood was taken by Peter Christ from the Crystal Records recording studio, where these recordings were made.

Hindemith, Janácek, and Mathias are three of the most outstanding composers of the 20th century. The Hindemith and Janácek works are stalwarts in the repertoire for woodwind quintet with other winds. Fabulous pieces of music, they show the colors that can be garnered with the addition of just one or two instruments. Mathias’ Concertino captures piano, flute, oboe, and bassoon in all their glory – wonderful melodies and driving rhythms. We believe this is the first recording of this work. 

Bruce Stark’s Americana Wind Quintet is also a world-premiere recording.“Stark's four movement, Americana Wind Quintet...there is something about it that is unmistakably American in sound and spirit that's hard to describe. Above all, I find it to be an exquisitely beautiful piece and one that has grown on me with repeated hearings and moved me deeply.What extraordinarily beautiful and how extraordinarily beautiful is the playing of the Westwood Wind Quintet.  How sweet and flowing is John Barcellona's flute, how pure and focused is Peter Christ's oboe, how warm and woodsy is William Helmers' clarinet, how mellow is John Cox's horn, and how present yet blended is Patricia Nelson's Bassoon. This is woodwind playing and music-making of the highest order.  Urgently recommended.” Fanfare (Jerry Dubins)

“refreshing life to all of the music, embracing the diversity of textures and styles with crisp and sensitive authority.. [Janacek is] a delightful and affectionate gem from one of music’s true originals...Stark’s Quintet abounds in poetic and dramatic flights spiced with savoury flavours and rhythmic twists.” Gramophone (Donald Rosenberg)

“The Westwood Wind Quintet presents a thoroughly diverse, classy and fascinating programme. The whole production, from the beautiful recording quality to the well-written liner notes, leaves one totally satisfied. All in all, it offers pleasurable listening and top-notch musicianship.” Music Web (June 2020, Stephen Greenbank)

Westwood Wind Quintet, one of the world’s premiere ensembles, was established in 1959. “An accumulation of instrumental polish and important repertory over a long period has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity.” (Los Angeles Times). 

Doug Reneau is asst. principal trumpet of the Oregon Symphony. Carol Robe is bass clarinetist of the Portland Opera and clarinet instructor at the University of Oregon. Lisa Bergman has toured internationally with many of the most esteemed vocalists and violinists. Along with her playing, she is presently a radio announcer with KING-FM in Seattle.

CD791 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Hindemith: Septett  I. Lebhaft   II. Intermezzo   III. Variationen   IV. Intermezzo   V. Fuge. Alte Berner Marsch    Mathias: Concertino  I. Moderato   II. Andante mesto   III. Allegro capriccioso    Stark: Americana Wind Quintet  I. Serenade   II. Hymn to the Dawn   III. River Song   IV. City Shuffle    JanáĊek: Mládí  I. Allegro   II. Andante sostenuto   III. Vivace   IV. Allegro animato

 

Cassettes:

C253:  SONI VENTORUM  WIND QUINTET.   Woodwind Quintets by Paul Taffanel, Jean Martinon, Claude Arrieu.   009414725349 Cassette  only. Call or write Crystal Records to order.

C649:  BURIED TREASURES ENSEMBLE:   Adrienne Tworek-Gryta, soprano;  Ronald Richards, oboe/English horn;  Darlene Jussila, bassoon;  Carlo Pinto, piano.  music by Fortunati, Brod, Lalliet, Pinto.    009414764942  Cassette only.  Call or write Crystal Records to order.

COMPACT DISCS: $19.95
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