At 22, Helen Habershon was appointed principal clarinettist of the Gulbenkian Orchestra after a spell as principal clarinettist of the Academy of the BBC.
Composition History
Johannes Brahms, the composer of the Clarinet Sonatas, had announced his retirement from composing in 1890 but was inspired to write these late works after hearing clarinetist Richard Mühlfeld in 1891.
Performer Biography
John Lenehan, the pianist on this album, has more than 70 albums to his credit and has been praised by the New York Times for his 'great flair and virtuosity'.
Performer Biography
Helen Habershon's first three albums, 'Found in the Rain', 'Found in the Sunlight', and 'Found in Winter', were all named 'Album of the Month' or 'Albums of the Week' by Classic FM.
Performer Biography
Helen Habershon was singled out by Gervase de Peyer, a renowned clarinetist, who hailed her as the next Thea King, another celebrated clarinetist.
Performer Biography
Helen Habershon, the clarinetist on this album, began playing the recorder at age 4 and the clarinet at age 10, also composing and winning prizes in local music competitions.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Gerald Finzi, the composer of the Five Bagatelles, dismissed these popular pieces as 'only trifles' and 'not worth much', despite them receiving better notices than his 'decent stuff'.
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