Malcolm Arnold's Three Shanties for Wind Quintet are based on simple songs but frequently break traditional rules of euphony, suggesting the composer experimented with musical boundaries.
Historical Context
All the quintets on this album were composed in the first half of the 20th century, specifically in the early 1920s and the 1940s, a period regarded as one of the most eventful in modern history.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Paul Hindemith's Kleine Kammermusik (little chamber music) was an attempt by the composer to free himself from the expressive style of late Romanticism, representing a musical 'emancipation'.
Recording & Production
The album was recorded in just three days at the Hans Rosbaud Studio in Baden-Baden, a challenging timeframe that led to 'musical disagreements' but ultimately strengthened the ensemble.
Interpretation
The ensemble deliberately chose 20th-century works for this album, opting for diverse, experimental, and challenging pieces over classical works by composers like Anton Reicha or Franz Danzi.
Compositional Technique
Jean Françaix's Quintet, a staple for wind players, is known for its sprightliness and virtuosity, making it technically challenging to perform with natural ease.
Album & Artwork
The ensemble's name, "variation 5", reflects both the uniqueness of each of its five players and the diversity of the works and their interpretations.
You might also enjoy...
Hoffmeister, F.A.: Notturni - Nos. 1, 2, 3, 6
Nielsen, C. / Francaix: Wind Quintets
Ligeti: 10 Pieces, Wind Quintet & 6 Bagatelles
Masters Series – Hindemith: Kleine Kammermusik, Op. 24 No. 2
Master Series – Hindemith: Kleine Kammermusik, Op. 24 No. 2
Eisler: Divertimento / Schönberg: Bläserquintett
Nielsen, C. / Farkas / Ibert / Arnold: Music for Wind Quintet
Inner Song - Chamber Music By Carter, Veress & Holliger
