Ignaz Pleyel, a contemporary of Mozart and Haydn, presents a captivating collection of wind ensemble arrangements in "Partitas for Winds." Released on February 5, 2013, under the Accent label, this album offers a delightful journey through Pleyel's compositions, originally written for strings, now reimagined for winds. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, the album features a variety of movements from different partitas and a sextet, showcasing Pleyel's mastery of form and melody.
The album opens with the Partita ex Dis in E-Flat Major, followed by an Eccossois arrangement, and continues with the Partita in B-Flat Major, which includes a lively Allegro con spirito and a graceful Andante - Variazione. The Sextetto in C Minor adds a touch of drama and elegance to the collection. The Partita in E-Flat Major, Ben 285, concludes the album with a series of movements that range from the Moderato to a spirited Finale: Allegro moderato.
Pleyel's music, characterized by its clarity, elegance, and inventiveness, is brought to life by the wind ensemble, offering a fresh perspective on these timeless compositions. "Partitas for Winds" is a testament to Pleyel's enduring appeal and the versatility of his music, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.