Composer: Johannes Brahms
Works: Clarinet Quintet in B minor, Op. 115; Piano Quintet in F minor, Op. 34
Performers: Ralph Manno (clarinet), Alfredo Perl (piano), Rahel Cunz, Michaela Paetsch Neftel (violins), Hartmut Rohde (viola), Guido Schiefen (cello)
Recording: Recorded 14-15 August 1995, Iglesia San Francisco de Telde, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Label: ARTE NOVA 74321 30493 2
Brahms’s late works reveal a composer reflective and introspective, grappling with the shadows of mortality and artistic legacy. The Clarinet Quintet in B minor, Op. 115, composed in 1891, exemplifies this autumnal lyricism, while the Piano Quintet in F minor, Op. 34, written earlier in 1864-65, showcases Brahms’s vigorous counterpoint and emotional breadth. Both pieces represent pivotal moments in Brahms’s output, bridging the Romantic ideal with structural integrity, and this recording captures their essence with remarkable fidelity.
The performance led by clarinetist Ralph Manno is noteworthy for its warm, rich tone, which resonates beautifully against the strings. Manno’s articulation in the Clarinet Quintet is particularly commendable; he navigates the lyrical lines with a delicate expressiveness that evokes the melancholy inherent in the work. The ensemble’s interpretation unfolds with an admirable balance of tenderness and robustness, allowing the music’s intricate interplay to shine. The ensemble’s cohesion is evident in their nuanced dynamics and phrasing, particularly in the second movement, where the dialogue between the clarinet and strings becomes a poignant conversation, imbued with the bittersweet character typical of Brahms’s late style.
Alfredo Perl’s pianism is equally praiseworthy, marked by a sensitivity that enhances the overall texture of the Piano Quintet. His approach to dynamics is masterful; the way he subtly shifts from gentle commentary to powerful declarations in the opening movement establishes an emotional landscape that is at once intimate and expansive. The interplay between the piano and strings in the Scherzo is lively and vibrant, showcasing Perl’s ability to drive the narrative while allowing the strings to weave their intricate patterns without overshadowing them.
The recording quality deserves particular mention, as it captures the ensemble with clarity and depth. The acoustic of the Iglesia San Francisco de Telde lends an organic warmth, enveloping the listener in the rich sonorities of Brahms’s orchestration. Each instrument is distinctly placed within the soundstage, allowing for a clear appreciation of Brahms’s textural complexities. This is especially evident in the interplay during the climactic moments of the Piano Quintet, where the interplay of voices is both vivid and harmonious.
While there are other recordings of these works that boast stellar performances, such as those featuring the likes of the Berlin Philharmonic Ensemble or the renowned clarinetist Sabine Meyer, this particular offering stands out for its budget-friendly price point without sacrificing interpretive depth. The combination of Manno’s lyrical clarinet and Perl’s sensitive piano creates an engaging experience that rivals more established interpretations.
The interpretations presented in this recording not only respect Brahms’s intricate compositional techniques but also breathe life into the emotional core of the works. The ensemble’s ability to balance vigor with tenderness in both pieces exemplifies a profound understanding of Brahms’s late style. This recording is an essential addition for both seasoned listeners and newcomers to Brahms, providing a compelling listen that resonates with the complexities of the human experience.
