Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827)Quintet in E flat major for piano and winds, Op.16
Pascal Rogé piano
Gareth Hulse oboe
Michael Collins clarinet
Richard Watkins horn
Robin O'Neill bassoon
Ludwig Spohr (1784-1859)
Septet in A minor Op. 147
Pascal Rogé piano
Philippa Davies flute
Michael Collins clarinet
Richard Watkins horn
Robin O'Neill bassoon
Chantal Juillet violin
Christopher van Kampen cello
Recorded: 1994-03-04
Venue: Abbey Road, Studio 1, London
Decca 1994
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Beethoven modelled his Quintet on Mozart’s Quintet, K452; however, the present coupling with Spohr’s A minor Septet suggests comparisons with romantic models rather than classical ones. In the present instance, Pascal Roge and London Winds produce a fuller, more robust sound, with the piano tone given a softer edge that emphasizes the music’s romantic tendencies. Effusive phrasing and bold projection throughout imbue the first movement with greater dramatic potency, give the second movement increased warmth and expressive intensity and bring the work to a more exuberant close in the finale.
Spohr’s Septet (composed in 1853), was his last chamber work with piano, and its unusual instrumental forces inspired the composer to write music of astonishing freshness and vitality, which is conveyed in this performance with infectious enthusiasm and charm. The opening Allegro has a persuasive romantic sweep; the lush autumnal atmosphere of the “Pastorale” is vividly evoked; the Scherzo’s ‘orchestral’ richness is effectively captured, with the finale culminating in concerto-like brilliance.(Grammophone)