Clar Ctos

I must thank the Rough Guide for recommending this CD of Clarinet concertinos by Elizabeth Maconchy well conduced by Barry Wordsworth perfectly played by Thea King and the English Chamber orchestra, Machonchy (1907- 1994) had a long compositional career beginning at age 20. which continued almost until her death. Her composition well regarded abroad by not in England due to her being a woman until much later when she was recognized with a D.B.E by the queen. .The concertino no 1 for string orchestra is a rich ominous work with passages of exciting driving rhythms and dramatic brooding passages. The much later concertino 2 is for double woodwinds, 2 flutes, horns trumpet, timpani and strings is a shorter more exposed work creating an exhilarating sound world where stark harmonies and textures are reconciled with lyric warmth. Machonchy was a modernist who was influenced by Bartok and Hindemith. Both of the concertos are masterpieces wholly exhilarating. I would also recommend her complete string quartets which is one of the best in the Twentieth Century'
The other works on this disc are two concertos by Malcolm Arnold which were commissioned by Benny Goodman are jazz influenced and quite enjoyable and the movement for clarinet concerto y Benjamin Britten. Highly recommended for all listeners of classical music. Please excuse any typos I have a neurologic disease.