Search - Francis Poulenc, Ensemble Wien-Berlin, James Levine :: Poulenc: Chamber Music

A PLETHORA OF POULENC

Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 01/03/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is by far the most scintillating compilation of Poulenc chamber works before the public today, offering a repertoire of compositions spanning the composer's career, and performed by artists of consummate sensibility, elan and charm.



Poulenc [1899-1963], whose chamber music can be variable, is ardently championed here in pieces that are, for the most part, his most popular, with the possible exception of the masterful Elegy for Horn and Piano (the composer's hommage to the exceptional hornist, Dennis Brain).



How completely endearing is the Ensemble Wien-Berlin, with maestro James Levine at the piano. At every turn, these musicians make this music their own, keeping it full of warmth and humanity. From the opening Presto of the Trio for Piano, Oboe and Bassoon, which exudes a contagious and spirited wit, to the melancholy Romanza of the Sonata for Clarinet and Piano, and the lovely Cantilena of the Sonata for Flute and Piano, to the haunting Elegy for Horn and, finally, through the thoroughly sunny Sextet, one is held musically captive completely.



A finer introduction to these glorious Poulenc works I couldn't imagine. With artists of this calibre digging in and letting loose, and recorded sound to match--- clear, full, alive--- this CD is absolutely unbeatable.



[Running time: 70:11]"

Just the Elegie already worth the money

iVan Wong | 06/26/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Great Performer, Great Pieces and Great Recording (DDD). Performed by the world renown Enemble Wien-Berlin. Elegie for Horn, as a tribute to Dennis Brain, captured my heart and mind. The only thing that bother me is also this piece though. Gunter Hogner accidentally swallowed (and played it wrong) one note in the piece. But then playing the piece with a Vienna Horn is already a great challenge. To conclude: Great CD!"

Excellent

S. Greer | Tallahassee, FL | 07/06/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"All pieces here are interesting and beautifully played. I would like to extend my utmost congratulations to Mr. Levine and Mr. Schulz for giving such a lovely performance of the flute sonata, of which I've heard many great versions. Also I congratulate Mr. Schellenberger for being one of the greatest oboists I've ever had the privilege to hear: every piece featuring him is worth twice the price of admission. Having given those superlatives, I must add that everything else on this CD is wonderful as well and that you won't be disappointed in the least - unless you go deaf while the CD is still on the way."