Martin Fröst, the clarinetist on this album, is recognized as one of the few truly international wind players, performing with major orchestras worldwide.
Composer Biography
Bernhard Henrik Crusell, a Finnish-born composer and clarinetist, was a versatile figure in Nordic music, also working as a conductor and translator of opera librettos.
Composition History
Anders Hillborg's Clarinet Concerto (Peacock Tales) was written for Martin Fröst in three intense months in 1998, evolving from an intended 15-minute piece into a half-hour musical drama.
Performer Biography
Martin Fröst is passionate about expanding the clarinet repertoire and has championed works by composers like Anders Hillborg, Kalevi Aho, Rolf Martinsson, and Bent Sørensen.
Performer Biography
In addition to his performing career, Martin Fröst is also active as a conductor and serves as the artistic director for two festivals in Sweden and Norway.
Performer Biography
Martin Fröst is the first clarinetist to receive the prestigious Léonie Sonning Music Prize in 2014, an award previously given to figures like Igor Stravinsky and Daniel Barenboim.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Vagn Holmboe, a Danish composer, found great inspiration in Romanian folk music, noting its direct, emotional, and elemental qualities.
