Mozart, Brahms & Reger: Klarinettenquintette

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of chamber music with Sharon Kam's exquisite album, "Mozart, Brahms & Reger: Klarinettenquintette." Released on October 16, 2015, under the Berlin Classics label, this album is a testament to Kam's virtuosity and her deep connection with the clarinet. Spanning a duration of 2 hours and 11 minutes, the album features a collection of quintets by three master composers: Mozart, Brahms, and Reger.

The album opens with Brahms' Clarinet Quintet, Op. 115, a work that showcases the composer's rich harmonies and intricate melodies. The four movements, from the Allegro in B Minor to the Con moto in B Minor, are performed with precision and passion by Kam and her ensemble. Following Brahms, the album presents his Clarinet Quintet in A Major, Op. 146, a piece that highlights the clarinet's lyrical and expressive qualities.

The final set of quintets is by Mozart, specifically the Clarinet Quintet in A Major, K. 581, also known as the "Stadler-Quintett." This quintet is a beautiful example of Mozart's ability to blend clarity and elegance with depth and emotion. The four movements, from the Allegro to the Allegretto con variazioni, are performed with a sensitivity and nuance that brings out the best in this timeless piece.

In addition to the quintets, the album also includes insightful introductions to each work, providing context and background information that enhances the listening experience. These introductions offer a glimpse into the composers' lives and the historical context in which these works were created, making this album not just a collection of performances but also a journey through the evolution of the clarinet quintet.

Sharon Kam's playing is characterized by her warm, resonant tone and her ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her instrument. Her interpretations of these quintets are both technically impressive and deeply moving, making this album a standout in her discography. Whether you are a seasoned chamber music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.