Mercadante: Works for Clarinet & Orchestra

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Saverio Mercadante's "Works for Clarinet & Orchestra," a remarkable collection of chamber music released on January 1, 2016, under the Orfeo label. This album showcases Mercadante's mastery of the clarinet concerto form, featuring two complete concertos, a concertino, and a sinfonia concertante, all performed with exquisite artistry.

The album opens with the Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 101, a three-movement work that begins with a majestic Allegro maestoso, followed by a serene Adagio, and concludes with a lively Andante con variazioni. The Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, Op. 76, follows, offering a contrasting Maestoso opening, a tender Largo, and a brilliant Polacca finale. The Clarinet Concertino in C Minor and the Sinfonia concertante No. 3 in E-Flat Major round out the program, each demonstrating Mercadante's inventive orchestration and melodic genius.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 2 minutes, this album is a testament to Mercadante's enduring contribution to the clarinet repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Works for Clarinet & Orchestra" promises a rewarding listening experience, highlighting the beauty and versatility of the clarinet in orchestral settings.