The music contained on this Centrediscs recording shows the variety and richness of tonal combinations possible with wind quintet instruments. Through the works of four major Canadian composers — Malcolm Forsyth, Talivaldis Kenins, Jacques Hétu and Harry Freedman — the listener is taken on a musical voyage that encompasses a myriad of inventive styles, daring harmonies and passionate emotions. These substantial works are admirably performed by the Essex Winds, an outstanding quintet of Ontario musicians, who have enriched our musical lives by making available for the first time on compact disc some of the important wind quintet repertoire of our country. Formed in 1981 as part of the professional core of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, the Essex Winds were distinguished by being invited to perform for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness Prince Phillip during their visit to Canada in 1984.
“The Essex Winds play wonderfully. The notes … are copious and intelligent (and well written). Good sound, too. All of the music is enjoyable.”
Fanfare Magazine
MALCOLM FORSYTH
1-4. Quintette for Winds (or…) *
TALIVALDIS KENINS
5. Variations on a Theme of Schubert
JACQUES HETU
6-9. Quintette
HARRY FREEDMAN
10-12. Quintette for Winds
* This work was nominated for a
1997 JUNO: Best Classical Composition.
Cette oeuvre a été nominée pour un JUNO 1997: Meilleur composition classique.
PERFORMERS:
The Essex Winds
Jean-François Rompré (flute/flûte), Blake Stephenson (clarinet/clarinette), Anne Marie Monaco (french horn/cor français), Leslie Magowan (bassoon/basson).
