Finzi: Bagatelles, Op. 23 & Clarinet Concerto in C-Minor, Op. 31 & Ashmore: Four Seasons

Richard Stoltzman presents a captivating collection of chamber music, showcasing his virtuosity and versatility as a clarinetist. This album, released on January 1, 1991, under RCA Victor, is a blend of Gerald Finzi's and John Ashmore's compositions, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. The album opens with Finzi's Bagatelles, Op. 23, a series of short, charming pieces that highlight Stoltzman's technical prowess and expressive range. The second half of the album features Finzi's Concerto for Clarinet and String Orchestra in C Minor, Op. 31, a three-movement work that combines lyrical melodies and rhythmic vitality. The album concludes with Ashmore's Four Seasons, a suite of English folk song settings that evoke the changing moods and landscapes of the seasons. With a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album is a testament to Stoltzman's artistry and his ability to bring out the beauty and depth of these compositions.