CRYSTAL RECORDS   Westwood Wind Quintet

 

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The Westwood Wind Quintet was founded in 1959 and performed and recorded actively for 58 years, during which time it gave over 2000 concerts and recorded more than 23 albums. In the mid-1980s, Daniel Carriaga, music critic with the Los Angeles Times, wrote "An accumulation of instrumental polish and important repertoire over a long period has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity." Upon hearing the Quintet in a concert, Robert Shaw, former music director of the Atlanta Symphony, wrote “one listens to this ensemble as one listens to the finest of string quartets. It is a complete and completely satisfying musical experience.”

 

This photo of the group was taken in August 2017 and shows the personnel that is on the last 3 CDs. (standing) John Barcellona, flute; John Cox, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon; (sitting) Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet. CD759, CD790, and CD791.

 

            High Fidelity Magazine wrote: “extraordinary tone quality. The Westwood performers manifest a technical finesse and a richness of tone that one would normally expect only from a solo concert artist.”

 

            Fanfare Magazine wrote: “top-notch playing that can only be envied by lesser ensembles. Exceptional recordings.”

 

            International Record Review wrote: “The Westwood Wind Quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking. The fundamental ensemble qualities are something to be cherished, and (for some of us) to attempt to emulate.”

 

            American Record Guide wrote: “The Westwood Wind Quintet [has been] for over 40 years one of the finest ensembles of its kind and the playing here certainly demonstrates that.”

 

            Gramophone Magazine wrote: “magnificent American group. Superlative playing.”

 

“The quintet has done invaluable service to the field by recording a vast number of works for their complement, even as they've stretched the bounds of the genre"  Gramophone, Nov. 2017 (Donald Rosenberg)

 

EXTRA SPECIAL Limited time: 12-CD SET OF ALL 24 REICHA WOODWIND QUINTETS, OVER 13 HOURS OF GORGEOUS MUSIC, in an attractive box set, ONLY $128.  (U.S. media mail shipping is FREE, or $10 Canadian shipping, or $19 other countries) Reicha Box Set CD260  BUY NOW   To order individual CDs in the set, see CD261-CD272 below.

PLEASE NOTE: Because the 12-CD set of Reicha CDs is already discounted below cost and is sold as a set, we cannot give a further discount of 4 for 3 for the CDs in that set. Thank you for your understanding.

        

    The International Double Reed Society Journal, Ron Klimko, Editor, wrote: “The Westwood Wind Quintet is one of the finest wind quintets in the world.  I always enjoy hearing the Westwood Wind Quintet. Their performances, as well as their fine recording technique, never disappoints. With all those years of experience playing together, their ensemble is wonderfully precise, clear and always exciting. The latter characteristic of excitement is what I hear most in their performances again and again. Sure, the polish is there, but never at the expense of excitement and an exuberance. When they play, the music truly comes alive!”

 

            The Flutist Quarterly (Keith Pettway) wrote: “wonderful sense of ensemble. It is seldom that one comes across a recording that with careful listening displays absolutely no major flaws, in performance or engineering. This is such a recording [Reicha vol. 11]. The players understand the music, each other, their instruments, and how they fit into the mix. The result is simply beautiful ensemble playing. The intonation is about as good as it gets when it comes to any chamber music.”

 

 

  CD250: WOODWIND TREASURES, Westwood Wind Quintet. August Klughardt: Quintet, op. 79; Luciano Berio: Opus Number Zoo; George Heussenstamm: Seven Etudes for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Boris Pillin: Scherzo; Robert Linn: Woodwind Quintet; Herman Stein, Sour Suite. UPC 009414725028 BUY NOW

 

    The Quintet by August Klughardt (1847-1902) is as close to Brahms as woodwind ensembles have. This is a lush, Romantic piece and this is the only recording of it. The other pieces were all first recordings and most are still the only recordings available. 
 

Klughardt and Berio: John Barcellona, Flute; Peter Christ, Oboe; David Atkins, Clarinet; Kenneth Meyer, Bassoon; Calvin Smith, Horn.

Other works: Gretel Shanley, Flute; Peter Christ, Oboe; David Atkins, Clarinet; Robert Henderson, Horn; Kay Brightman, Bassoon.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer)Click on the link to hear approximately one minute of the movement shown. 
Klughardt Quintet:  Mvt 1(Allegro non troppo)  Mvt 2(Allegro Vivace)  Mvt3(Andante)  Mvt 4(Adagio)    Berio Opus Number Zoo:   Tom Cats   Grey Mouse   Fawn   Barn Dance    Heussenstam Etudes:  Mvt1(Andante)  Mvt 2(Allegro assai)  Mvt 3(Allegretto)  Mvt 4(Larghetto)  Mvt 5(Allegro giocoso)  Mvt 6(Allegro)  Mvt 7(Moderato)    Pillin: Scherzo    Linn Quintet:  Mvt 1(Allegro)  Mvt 2(Adagio)  Mvt 3(Allegro)    Stein Sour Suite:  Parade    Larry's Lullaby    Bagatelle    Lucky Seven-Eight

 

 

Click here for more information on the Reicha Woodwind Quintet series

 CD261: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 1, Opus 88, Nos. 1 & 2. Westwood Wind Quintet UPC 009414726124    BUY NOW

This, volume one, is the 12th and final release of the 24 Reicha Woodwind Quintets. We are pleased that we now have all 24 of the Reicha Woodwind Quintets performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. This volume has the first two of Reicha’s Quintets, including the most popular op. 88, no. 2. Although the two quintets in this volume are shorter and a bit lighter than the other 22 quintets, they are still masterpieces, symphonic in scope. Opus 88, no. 1 is 21:28 in length. Opus 88, no. 2 is 26:55 in length.

 

“They are both mature works, and have Reicha’s signature beautiful melodies, exciting counterpoint, and thrilling allegros...those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned.” (Ritter, Audiophile Audition). 

 

The Westwood Wind Quintet has garnered exceptional praise for the series of Reicha Quintets. About a previous volume in the Westwood Wind Quintet’s 12 volume series of the Reicha Woodwind Quintets, the Flutist Quarterly (Pettway) wrote “it is seldom that one comes across a recording that with careful listening displays no major flaws, in performance or engineering. This is such a recording. The players understand the music, each other, their instruments, and how they fit into the mix. The result is simply beautiful ensemble playing.”  

 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
(to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in E Minor   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet in Eb Major   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4

CD262: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 2, Opus 88, Nos. 3 & 4. Performed by the  Westwood Wind Quintet.  UPC 009414726223   BUY NOW   

 

This is the tenth CD in the 12-CD series of the 24 Woodwind Quintets of Anton Reicha. These quintets continue to garner the highest praise from musicians and critics. These 24 quintets are a pinnacle of achievement, “glorious quintets constant freshness, a feeling of unquenchable invention with radiant good humour. The Westwood Wind Quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking.” (International Record Review)

The Westwood Wind Quintet, now in its 52nd season, is “one of the finest wind quintets in the world.” (International Double Reed Society Journal). “One listens to the Westwood Wind Quintet as one listens to the finest of string quartets. It is a complete and completely satisfying musical experience.”  Robert Shaw, formerly conductor, Atlanta Symphony
 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.

 Quintet in G Major    Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet in D Minor   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4  (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

CD263: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 3, Opus 88, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. This was the 9th CD released in the 12-CD series of the 24 complete woodwind quintets by Anton Reicha. UPC 009414726322.     BUY NOW  

Ү..each Reicha Quintet is a masterpiece of the highest order. Those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned. These pieces are symphonies in miniature...each one a masterpiece.Ӽ/i>  Audiophile Audition (Ritter)

“The players seek, find, and reveal the numerous qualities that have kept Reicha’s Quintets alive for almost two centuries...performances radiate affection for the music and technical virtuosity. Exceptional recordings.”  Fanfare.

 

“The Westwood Wind Quintet is one of the finest wind quintets in the world. Their ensemble is wonderfully precise, clear and always exciting. When they play, the music truly comes alive”  International Double Reed Society Journal (Klimko)

“probably the best group of this kind anywhere.” New Orleans Courier
 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Richard Spece, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
Quintet in Bb Major, opus 88, no.5    Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4     Quintet in F Major, opus 88, no.6    Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4   (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

 

CD264: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 4, Opus 91, Nos. 1 & 2.  Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726421  BUY NOW

This was the fifth release in Crystal Records' series of Anton Reicha's 24 woodwind quintets. "Reicha...infused content of superb musical worth. Those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned. These pieces are symphonies in miniature, not only in complexity but in length – 40 minutes is not unusual. If you are collecting this series, you can certainly continue with confidence, and all others would do well to dip their hands into Reicha's clean waters."  Steven Ritter, Audiophile Audition 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon. 

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown

Quintet in C Major, opus 91, no. 1: Mvt.1 Allegro moderato/Andante/Tempo primo   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto   Mvt.4 Finale     Quintet in A Minor, opus 91, no. 2: Mvt.1 Adagio/Allegro assai   Mvt.2 Andante   Mvt.3 Menuetto   Mvt.4 Finale

 

CD265: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 5, Opus 91, Nos. 3 & 4. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726520  BUY NOW

 

"Westwood's members succeed in capturing the unique qualities of Reicha's quintets and do so in a manner that indicates their admiration and respect for the repertoire. The players seek, find, and reveal the numerous qualities that have kept this repertoire alive for almost two centuries."  Carter, Fanfare Magazine 

Westwood Wind Quintet in this recording: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

“Both the quality of composition and the playing of the recording are of a high quality and I recommend it as a good example of Reicha’s quintets.” Australian Clarinet and Saxophone (Melissa Carter)

 

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.
Opus 91, no. 3  Mvmt 1    Mvmt 2    Mvmt 3    Mvmt 4    Opus 91, no. 4  Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4

 CD266: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets,Vol. 6, Opus 91, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726629  BUY NOW

"The performances radiate affection for the music and technical virtuosity. This delightful disc rates a high recommendation."  Story, Fanfare Magazine 
Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Jack Herrick, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown..
Quintet in A Major, opus 91, no. 5  Mvmt 1  Mvmt 2  Mvmt 3  Mvmt 4    Quintet in C minor, opus 91, no. 6:  Mvmt 1  Mvmt 2  Mvmt 3  Mvmt 4

CD267: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 7, Opus 99, Nos. 1 & 2. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726728  BUY NOW

This was the third release in Crystal's exciting project of recording the complete 24 Reicha Woodwind Quintets. "...both the ear and intellect are gratified by these quintets. The performances are worthy of the Westwood Wind Quintet's reputation." Raymond Tuttle, International Record Review 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Eugene Zoro, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

“The Westwood Wind Quintet performs these works with real integrity and the approach is serious but never dour. The ensemble sound is excellent, well balanced, warm and round and with a clear understanding of the music of Reicha.” Australian Clarinet and Saxophone (Brian Catchlove)

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.
Reicha Quintet in C Major, opus 99, no.1  Mvt. 1    Mvt. 2   Mvt. 3   Mvt. 4    Quintet in F Minor, opus 99, no.2  Mvt. 1   Mvt. 2   Mvt. 3   Mvt. 4

 

CD268: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 8, Op. 99, Nos. 3 & 4.  Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726827    BUY NOW   

This was the 7th release (released July 2009) in the series of 12 CDs of the 24 woodwind quintets by Anton Reicha. The Westwood Wind Quintet has completed the recordings of all 24 quintets. Reicha (1770-1836) was one of the most respected composers of his time. He was a friend of Beethoven and Haydn, and was the teacher of Berlioz, Liszt, Gounod, and Franck. 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Richard Spece, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.
Reicha Quintet in A Major, opus 99, no. 3  Mvt. 1: Lento; Allegro   Mvt. 2: Andante   Mvt. 3: Menuetto. Allegro   Mvt. 4: Finale. Allegro assai     Quintet in D Major, opus 99, no. 4  Mvt. 1: Andante; Allegro spirituoso   Mvt. 2: Poco lento   Mvt. 3: Menuetto. Scherzo   Mvt. 4. Finale. Allegro assai

 

CD269: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 9, Opus 99, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414726926   BUY NOW

This was the fourth release of Reicha quintets. "Crystal Record's devotion to Reicha's woodwind quintets is estimable.  [These works] are big, sonorous and large-scale ones published in 1822 and fully deserving of reclamation in such expert hands as these. The opening of Op.99 No. 5 floats in with the most beautiful and well balanced Andante – a Siciliano of dappled loveliness. The ensuing tumbling, flowing and exciting extroversion is the perfect riposte: an Allegro of ravenous yet decorous masculinity. It shows how finely perched these works are between introspection and well-wrought, technically accomplished self-projection. They're also formally always of the highest interest, playing tricks with harmony, structure, form and keys so subtly that you would barely notice. Reicha was a master of the form and wrote voraciously for woodwind quintet. This series is shaping up to be a major contribution on record...big, symphonic quintets, cleanly delineated, finely played and bursting with classical ideas and expertise." MusicWeb International 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Dileep Gangolli, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

 

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.
Quintet Quintet in C Major, opus 99, no.5  Mvt. 1(Andante/Allegro)   Mvt. 2(Andante)   Mvt. 3(Menuetto)   Mvt. 4(Finale)   Quintet in F Minor, opus 99, no.6  Mvt. 1(Andante/Allegro Poco Vivo)   Mvt. 2(Air En Fantaisie. Andante)   Mvt. 3(Menuetto)   Mvt. 4(Finale)

CD270: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets,Vol. 10, Opus 100, Nos. 1 & 2.  Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414727022 BUY NOW

This was the eighth release in Crystal Records' series of Anton Reicha's 24 woodwind quintets. (Released November 2009.) “Stunningly beautiful interpretations of these two quintets, both of which are monumental in scope and duration…All of the members of the quintet give superb performances and play as one organic being..Every musician needs to own this album for it offers up chamber music playing of the very highest order. Highly recommended.”  The Horn Call (Paul Basler)
 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; Dileep Gangolli, clarinet; Charles Kavalovski, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.
Quintet in F, opus 100, no. 1   Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4     Quintet in D Minor, op 100, no.2  Mvmt 1   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4   (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

 

CD271: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets,Vol. 11, Opus 100, Nos. 3 & 4.  Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414727121 BUY NOW

This was the sixth release in Crystal Records' series of Anton Reicha's 24 woodwind quintets. (Released Sept. 2008.) 

The Westwood Wind Quintet has now recorded all 24 of the 24 quintets. 

 

”It is seldom that one comes across a recording that with careful listening displays no major flaws, in performance or engineering. This is such a recording. The players understand the music, each other, their instruments, and how they fit into the mix. The result is simply beautiful ensemble playing.” The Flutist Quarterly (Pettway) 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown.   
Reicha Quintet Opus 100, No. 3  Mvt 1   Mvt 2   Mvt 3   Mvt 4    Opus 100, No. 4  Mvt 1   Mvt 2   Mvt 3   Mvt 4

 

CD272: ANTON REICHA Woodwind Quintets, Vol. 12, Opus 100, Nos. 5 & 6. Performed by the Westwood Wind Quintet. UPC 009414727220  BUY NOW   

“This was the 11th release in the 12 volume set of Reicha Woodwind Quintets (released October 2011). This volume has the last two of Reicha’s monumental 24 woodwind quintets. They are symphonies in scope,..each one a masterpiece. Those who ignore this legacy are missing out not only on some terrific wind music but on some of the finest music ever penned.” Ritter, Audiophile Audition. This CD is just under 80 minutes long. 

“The two quintets are mature works, with wonderful fugues and counterpoint, along with Reicha’s gorgeous melodies. Reicha was the teacher of Liszt, Berlioz, Adam, Gounod, and Franck, and was one of the most influential and respected composers of the period. The Westwood Wind quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking” Intl Record Review. About a previous volume (CD271) in the Westwood Wind Quintet’s 12 volume series of the Reicha Woodwind Quintets, the Flutist Quarterly (Pettway) wrote “It is seldom that one comes across a recording that with careful listening displays no major flaws, in performance or engineering. This is such a recording. The players understand the music, each other, their instruments, and how they fit into the mix. The result is simply beautiful ensemble playing.”

 

About this CD272. “Fantastic playing by all 5 soloists! Virtuosic in the 2nd mvt. variations of the quintet no. 5. Beautiful phrasing, great music making. Calvin Smith his horn playing is smooth- beautiful and he is a one of a kind virtuoso. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE VERY FINE  WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.”  – Jose Zarzo, principal horn, Gran Canaria Philharmonic (Spain)

 

The Horn Call (Eldon Matlock, reviewer) said “The soloists of the Westwood Quintet are magnificent performers, and it is a joy to hear such a long-standing ensemble present these marvelous works.”  

Westwood Wind Quintet on this CD: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
 (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
Quintet in A Minor, opus 100, no. 5   Mvmt 1: Lento  Mvmt 1: Allegro   Mvmt 2:  Andante (theme)  Variation 1 (horn)  Variation 2 (bassoon)  Variation 3 (oboe)  Variation 4 (clarinet)  Variation 5 (flute)   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4    Quintet in Bb Major, opus 100, no. 6   Mvmt 1: Poco adagio  Mvmt 1: Allegro   Mvmt 2   Mvmt 3   Mvmt 4: Andante Mvmt 4: Allegro assai

 

 

CD353: Sextuor Vent. Harvey Pittel, Alto Saxophone; Westwood Wind Quintet. 

Darius Milhaud: Scaramouche for Saxophone and Woodwind Quintet; Bernhard Heiden: Intrada for Saxophone and Woodwind Quintet; Paul Hindemith: Concert Piece for Two Saxophones (with Sunil Gadgil, saxophone); Pierre Max Dubois: Sinfonia da Camera (for Saxophone and Woodwind Quintet); Jacques Ibert: Trois Pices Brves (first movement) – for Woodwind Quintet; J.S. Bach:Fugue from the Well Tempered Clavier (arr. for Woodwind Trio); Rossini: Quartet no. 1 in F (first movement) – for Flute, Clarinet, Horn, and Bassoon; Paul De Wailly: Aubade for Flute, Oboe, and Clarinet; Adrien Barthe: Passacaille for Woodwind Quintet; Malcolm Arnold: Divertimento for Flute, Oboe, and Clarinet (first movement); Rimsky-Korsakov: Flight of the Bumble-Bee (arr. for Woodwind Quintet); Leo Sowerby: Pop Goes the Weasel (adapted by the Westwood Wind Quintet). UPC 009414735324   BUY NOW   

"Harvey Pittel [is a] master of his instrument...the most beautiful and pure tone I have ever heard from a saxophone." New York Times
The Westwood Wind  Quintet is "probably the best group of this kind anywhere." New Orleans Courier
"Delightful music, winningly played." Fanfare Magazine 

Westwood Wind Quintet: Gretel Shanley, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Kenneth Munday, bassoon.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
Milhaud: Scaramouche  I: Vif    II: Modr    III: Brazileira     Heiden:  Intrada     Hindemith: Concert Piece for Two Saxophones  I: Lebhaft   II: Mssig langsam   III: Lebhaft Dubois: Sinfonia da Camera  I: Entre   II: Gigue en rondeau   III: Variations     Ibert:   Trois Pices Brves (first mvmt)     Bach/arr. Atkins:  Fugue     Rossini:  Quartet no.1 in F (first mvmt) Wailly:  Aubade     Barthe:  Passacaille     Arnold: Divertimento (first mvmt)      Rimsky-Korsakov:  Flight of the Bumble-Bee     Sowerby:  Pop Goes the Weasel   (to return to this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)

CD601: NIELSEN, HINDEMITH, SCHULHOFF. The Westwood Wind Quintet. Carl Nielsen: Quintet, op. 43; Paul Hindemith: Kleine Kammermusik fr fnfBlser, op.24, no. 2; Erwin Schulhoff: Divertissement for Oboe, Clarinet, & Bassoon. UPC 009414760128 BUY NOW

 

Westwood Wind Quintet: Gretel Shanley, Flute; Peter Christ, Oboe; David Atkins, Clarinet; Allen Guse, Horn; David Breidenthal, Bassoon.
 
            High Fidelity Magazine, speaking of this recording of Nielsen and Hindemith Quintets, wrote "Extraordinary tone quality. The Westwood performers manifest a technical finesse and a richness of tone that one would normally expect only from a solo concerto artist. I cannot imagine a better performance than the one given here by the Westwood Wind Quintet." 

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Nielsen: Quintet Mvt 1 (Allegro Ben Moderato) Mvt 2(Menuet) Mvt 3 (Praeludium & Theme and Variations) 
Hindemith: Kleine Kammermusik Mvt 1 (Lustig, Massig schnelle Viertel) Mvt 2 (Walzer, Durchweg sehr leise) Mvt 3 (Ruhig und einfach. 
Achtel) Mvt 4 (Schnelle Viertel) Mvt 5 (Sehr lebhaft)    Schulhoff: Divertissement Mvt 1 (Ouverture) Mvt 2 (Burlesca) Mvt 3 (Romanzero) Mvt 4 
(Charleston) Mvt 5 (Tema con Variazioni e fugato) Mvt 6 (Florida) Mvt 7 (Rondino-Finale)

CD647: VIOLA AND THE WINDS. James Dunham, Viola; Westwood Wind Quintet; Jack Sanders, Guitar. Gustav Holst: Terzetto for Flute, Oboe, & Viola; Jerzy Sapieyevski: Concerto for Viola and Winds; Anthony Plog: Four Miniatures for Viola and Wind Quintet; Karl Kohn: Colla Voce for Viola and Guitar. UPC 009414764720   BUY NOW     

James Dunham was violist with the Grammy Award winning Cleveland Quartet. He presently teaches at the Shepherd School of Music in Houston, Texas. The Westwood Wind Quintet, founded in 1959, has performed thousands of concerts and has been described as "probably the best group of this kind anywhere." New Orleans Courier 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet; Calvin Smith, horn; Kenneth Meyer, bassoon.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Sapieyevski: Concerto    Holst Terzetto:  Mvt 1(Allegretto)  Mvt 2(Un poco vivace)    Plog Miniatures:  Mvt 1(Pastoral)  Mvt 2(Toccata)  Mvt 3(Chorale)  Mvt 4(Allegro)    Kohn: Colla Voce

CD750: WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.  Samuel Barber: Summer Music; Gyorgi Ligeti: Six Bagatelles; William Mathias: Quintet;   Mark Carlson: Nightwings (tape & woodwind quintet). UPC 009414775023 BUY NOW
 

 

“magnificent American group. Superlative playing...a recording which, equally good in tone-quality, balance and clarity, can also be described as superlative.” Gramophone Magazine (London) 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet; Kenneth Meyer, bassoon; Calvin Smith, horn.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer)Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Ligeti Bagatelles:   Allegro   Rubato   Allegro   Presto   Adagio   Molto Vivace    Barber: Summer Music    Mathias: Quintet  Mvt 1(Intro and March)  Mvt 2(Waltz)  Mvt 3(Scherzo)  Mvt 4(Elegy)  Mvt 5(Recitative and Dance)    Carlson: Nightwings

 

 

CD751: WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.  Ingolf Dahl: Allegro and Arioso; Karel Husa: Serenade for Piano and Wind Quintet; Jerzy Sapieyevski: Arioso for Trumpet and Wind Quintet; Louis Moyse: Quintet. UPC 009414775122  BUY NOW

 

"..an accumulation of instrumental polish & important repertory over a long period has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity."Los Angeles Times. "As usual, the Westwood Wind Quintet plays with spirit, finesse, polish, and magnificent articulation. Very fine recording." Fanfare. 

 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Atkins, clarinet, David Muller, bassoon; Joseph Meyer, horn. With Lisa Bergman, piano; Richard Pressley, trumpet.

 

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer) Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Dahl: Allegro and Arioso    Husa Serenade:  Mvt 1(La Montagne)   Mvt 2(La Nuit)   Mvt 3(La Danse)    Sapieyevski: Arioso    Moyse:  Quintet  Mvt 1(Allegro)   Mvt 2(Poco Lento)   Mvt 3(Presto)   Mvt 4(Allegro molto vivo)

CD752: WESTWOOD WIND QUINTET.  Bergsma: Concerto for Wind Quintet; Rochberg: To the Dark Wood; Carter: Woodwind Quintet 1948; Biggs: Scherzo; Plog: Animal Ditties; Schuller: Suite; Schuman: Dances for Woodwind Quintet and Percussion with Matthew Kocmieroski, percussion. UPC 009414775221 BUY NOW

 “ feast of ...virtuoso music for winds. Performances are excellent” In-Tune Magazine.  “superb performing group; first-rate in every way.” Washington D.C. Sunday Star 

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; David Muller, bassoon; David Atkins, clarinet; Joseph Meyer, horn.

Sound samples (uses RealPlayer)Click on the link to hear up to one minute of the movement shown. 
Bergsma Concerto:  Mvt 1(Allegro)  Mvt 2(Andante)  Mvt 3(Allegro assai)    Rochberg:  To the Dark Wood    Carter Quintet: Mvt 1(Allegretto)  Mvt 2   Niggs: Scherzo    Plog: Animal Ditties  Mvt 1(Osterich)  Mvt 2(Guppies)  Mvt 3(Canary)   Mvt4(Kangaroo)  Mvt 5(Fly)    Schuller: Suite  Prelude  Blues  Toccata    Schuman:  Dances

CD759: RAINBOW SUNDAE. Westwood Wind Quintet. Trios, Quartets, and Quintet. Nikolai Tschemberdschi: Concertino for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Joao Guilherme Ripper: Wind Trio for Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Arthur Berger: Quartet forFlute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Walter Piston: Three Pieces for Flute, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Walter Hartley: Woodwind Quartet for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, and Bassoon; Martin Scot Kosins: Rainbow Sundae for Woodwind Quintet.UPC 009414775924 BUY NOW     

            This CD features some of the most interesting and appealing music for woodwinds from the 20th century. Incorporating different styles, the six works are marvels of woodwind writing. The Tschemberdschi piece is little known but is a wonderful example of Russian composition from the mid-20th century. There is nothing else quite like it for woodwinds. South American beauty and rhythms permeate Ripper’s delightful Trio, and Berger’s Quartet was called one of the most satisfactory pieces for winds in the whole modern repertory by Virgil Thomson. Walter Piston’s’ Three Pieces is a wonderful trio that deserves more hearings. Walter Hartley is well-known for his marvelous writing for winds. Martin Scot Kosins’ Rainbow Sundae is a very listenable work in the style of his other pieces, some of which have become favorites on Crystal.
      

The Westwood Wind Quintet, founded in 1959, is possibly the most-esteemed wind quintet in the world. Having just released the well-received 12-CD set of the complete 24 Quintets by Anton Reicha, the group has garnered rave reviews from critics and the public for its more than 27 albums, starting with the ground-breaking recording of the Schonberg Wind Quintet on Columbia Records (now Sony), through the Nielsen, Hindemith, Barber, Dahl, etc., Quintets, and now this Rainbow Sundae. 

“The Westwood Wind Quintet offers yet another recorded tour de force. The pieces touch all the bases,  from reflective to rollicking and from reassuring to gently subversive. The group plays with both virtuosity and remarkable empathy throughout.” International Record Review

Westwood Wind Quintet: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; Patricia Nelson, bassoon; John Cox, horn.

Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Tschemberdschi  Concertino: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV    Ripper  Wind Trio: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III    Berger  Quartet in C Major: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III    Piston  Three Pieces: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III    Hartley  Woodwind Quartet:  Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV   Mvmt V    Kosins  Rainbow Sundaes: Mvmt I   Mvmt II   Mvmt III   Mvmt IV   Mvmt V

 

 

CD790 – FATE & FIRE: Alvin Etler, Woodwind Quintets Nos. 1 & 2; Dan Welcher, Woodwind Quintet No. 2; Dan Welcher, The Moerae, for Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, and Piano. Westwood Wind Quintet with Lisa Bergman, Piano. UPC 009414779021.  BUY NOW      

The Moerae deals with the fate of humanity, and fire is displayed by the intensity of that piece and the Quintets by Etler and Welcher. All of these works are either now or will be stalwart standards of woodwind literature. PLEASE PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THIS RELEASE. We are particularly proud of the recordings on this CD. We have been told by the many people that have heard them that the CD is not only one of the best woodwind recordings ever made but stands up with the best of any kind of classical recording. All the spirits were with us: repertoire, performance, sound, recording all clicked.
           

 The two Etler Quintets are staples in the woodwind quintet literature and have long been thought to be woodwind masterpieces. The Welcher Quintet No. 2 will also gain that stature. While we were recording this all the members of the Westwood Wind Quintet felt that it is probably one of the two or three best quintets ever written. The Moerae, with its interesting instrumentation, fascinating story line, and beautiful melodies, is a true work of art. The Moerae are the three fates who spin the thread of life, measure it, and cut it when they please. 
            The works were all recorded in late 2014. This is a world premiere recording of Welcher’s The Moerae and Quintet No. 2.

“The Westwood Wind Quintet, established in 1959, has an accumulation of instrumental polish and important repertory over a long period [which] has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity.” – Los Angeles Times. “The Westwood Wind Quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking.” – International Record Review
          

  “The remarkable ensemblism and intonation of the Westwood Wind Quintet is well known. Welcher’s composition The Moerae...presents huge challenges to performers...the pointilistic unisions require not only perfect intonation but also exact rhythmic execution. Both are accomplished flawlessly by the Westwood Wind Quintet...Notable in Westwood’s performance of Welcher’s Quintet No. 2 are its execution of unison octave writing, its solid blend of Klangfarben melodie, and its group dynamics. Special kudos go to oboist Peter Christ and flutist John Barcellona for their evocative playing in this work.” Erich Graf, The Flutist Quarterly

 

Westwood Wind Quintet on this recording: John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; John Cox, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon

 

CD790 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Welcher  The Moerae    Etler   Woodwind Quintet No. 1    Andante   Allegro   Lento   Vivace    Woodwind Quintet No. 2   Andante con moto   Allegro commodo   Adagio   Vivace    Welcher  Woodwind Quintet No. 2  Driven, Intense   Adagio   Passacaglia

 

 

CD791: Westwood Wind Quintet Augmented. Westwood Wind Quintet (John Barcellona, flute; Peter Christ, oboe; William Helmers, clarinet; John Cox, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon) with Doug Reneau, trumpet; Carol Robe, bass clarinet; Lisa Bergman, piano.   UPC 009414779120. BUY NOW     

 

Paul Hindemith, Septet for woodwind quintet, trumpet, and bass clarinet; William Mathias, Concertino for flute, oboe, bassoon, and piano; Bruce Stark, Americana Wind Quintet; Leoš JanĊek, Mldi (Jugend) for woodwind quintet and bass clarinet. Photo of Mt. Hood was taken by Peter Christ from the Crystal Records recording studio, where these recordings were made.

 

Hindemith, Janacek, and Mathias are three of the most outstanding composers of the 20th century. The Hindemith and JanaĊek works are stalwarts in the repertoire for woodwind quintet with other winds. Fabulous pieces of music, they show the colors that can be garnered with the addition of just one or two instruments. Mathias’ Concertino captures piano, flute, oboe, and bassoon in all their glory – wonderful melodies and driving rhythms. We believe this is the first recording of this work. 

Bruce Stark’s Americana Wind Quintet is also a world-premiere recording. “Stark's four movement, Americana Wind Quintet...there is something about it that is unmistakably American in sound and spirit that's hard to describe.  Above all, I find it to be an exquisitely beautiful piece and one that has grown on me with repeated hearings and moved me deeply. What extraordinarily beautiful and how extraordinarily beautiful is the playing of the Westwood Wind Quintet.  How sweet and flowing is John Barcellona's flute, how pure and focused is Peter Christ's oboe, how warm and woodsy is William Helmers' clarinet, how mellow is John Cox's horn, and how present yet blended is Patricia Nelson's Bassoon. This is woodwind playing and music-making of the highest order.  Urgently recommended.” Fanfare (Jerry Dubins) 

 

“Refreshing life to all of the music, embracing the diversity of textures and styles with crisp and sensitive authority.. [Janacek is] a delightful and affectionate gem from one of music’s true originals...Stark’s Quintet abounds in poetic and dramatic flights spiced with savoury flavours and rhythmic twists.” Gramophone (Donald Rosenberg)

 

“The Westwood Wind Quintet presents a thoroughly diverse, classy and fascinating programme. The whole production, from the beautiful recording quality to the well-written liner notes, leaves one totally satisfied. All in all, it offers pleasurable listening and top-notch musicianship.” Music Web (June 2020, Stephen Greenbank)

 

Westwood Wind Quintet, one of the world’s premiere ensembles, was established in 1959. “an accumulation of instrumental polish and important repertory over a long period has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity.”(Los Angeles Times). 

Westwood members on this CD (pictured) are John Barcellona, flute; William Helmers, clarinet; John Cox, horn; Patricia Nelson, bassoon, Peter Christ, oboe. This same five players are on the three most recent Westwood CDs: CD759, CD790, and CD791.

Doug Reneau is asst. principal trumpet of the Oregon Symphony. Carol Robe is bass clarinetist of the Portland Opera and clarinet instructor at the University of Oregon. Lisa Bergman has toured internationally with many of the most esteemed vocalists and violinists. Along with her piano playing, she is presently a Gracie Award-winning radio announcer with KING-FM in Seattle.

 

CD791 Sound samples (mp3 files) Click on the link to hear up to 35 seconds of the movement shown.
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Hindemith: Septett  I. Lebhaft   II. Intermezzo   III. Variationen   IV. Intermezzo   V. Fuge. Alte Berner Marsch    Mathias: Concertino  I. Moderato   II. Andante mesto   III. Allegro capriccioso    Stark: Americana Wind Quintet  I. Serenade   II. Hymn to the Dawn   III. River Song   IV. City Shuffle    JanĊek: Mld  I. Allegro   II. Andante sostenuto   III. Vivace   IV. Allegro animato

 

 

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