The Romantic Clarinet

01/08/2012
Robert Benson
Classical CD Review (US)

Several years ago this site mentioned a fine Mozart SACD featuring clarinetist Paul Dean. Now we have another lovely record from Melba, The Romantic Clarinet, a program of Brahms and Schumann played by Paul Dean who is a major figure on Australia's music scene as director of the Australian National Academy of Music. He was principal clarinet with several orchestras and has given many recitals and concert appearances. He obviously is a master of his instrument as evidenced by the performances heard on this superb disk. He's accompanied by another fine Australian artist, pianist Stephen Emerson, who has wide recognition for chamber music performances. The three transcriptions of lieder from Op. 57 and the three fantasy pieces by Schumann are gentle complements to the two mighty sonatas. The rich sounds of clarinet and piano are captured with uncommon warmth and presence.