Guitar Works Vol.3: Steid(G)

What is it about the key of E flat major that produced some of the finest works from our greatest composers? One need only think of Mozart's 39th Symphony and Divertimento for String Trio, Beethoven's 'Eroica' Symphony, and the list goes on and on. The well known and beloved Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra and the earlier Concertino of Carl Maria von Weber, who was born 5 years before Mozart's death and died shortly before Beethoven, share this key and are glorious works, arguably some of Weber's best. Performing with David Golub directing the Padua Chamber Orchestra, clarinetist David Shifrin--well known for his work as artistic director of The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and for his memorable broadcasts on PBS with members of same--brings unique musicianship and flair to these war-horses of the clarinet repertoire. His dulcet, coaxing tone and flawless technical command bring out the operatic quality of these works--in Weber's hands the clarinet really does sound like a coloratura--and make for an enjoyable listening experience. Golub's accompaniment is discreet and effectively complements Shifrin's efforts.