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.
(to return to this page after listening
to samples, please use your browser back button)
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.
(to return to
this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
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.
(to return to
this page after listening to samples, please use your browser back button)
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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