This 2006 EMI recording of the second of two Concertos for two clarinets by Moravian composer Franz Krommer features the perfectly complementary playing of
Sabine Meyer and
Julian Bliss. From trading phrases at the start of the opening Allegro through the dulcet duet in the central Adagio to the jaunty dance of the closing Alla Polacca,
Meyer's lean tone and elegant technique and
Bliss' sweet tone and supple technique are always together and always distinctive. In the recordings of Spohr's Fourth and Second concertos that complete the program,
Meyer and
Bliss split the performing duties --
Meyer taking the Fourth and
Bliss the Second. Both are in their ways wonderful:
Meyer subtle in her Larghetto and spirited in her Rondo al Espagnol and
Bliss soulful in his Adagio and spicy in his Rondo alla Polacca. Accompanied with skill and grace by the
Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields led by Kenneth Sillito and recorded with clarity and fidelity by producer John Fraser, this disc will remind listeners why
Meyer is considered one of the greatest living clarinetists and introduce listeners to a great young clarinetist.