Immerse yourself in the captivating world of George Onslow's chamber music with the album "Onslow: Nonet, Op. 77, Grand Septuor, Op. 79." Released in 2008 by Musikproduktion Dabringhaus und Grimm, this collection showcases two of Onslow's most remarkable works, performed by the Consortium Classicum. Spanning a total of 1 hour and 10 minutes, the album offers a rich and diverse listening experience.
The Nonet in A Minor, Op. 77, is a standout piece, featuring a wind quintet and a string quartet. Onslow's mastery of large instrumental groups is evident in this work, which is both assured and imaginatively composed. The piece is divided into four movements, each offering a unique blend of spiritoso, agitato, and cantabile elements.
The Grand Septuor in B-Flat Major, Op. 79, is another highlight of the album. This septet gives considerable priority to the piano, making it a quasi piano concerto. The music is steeped in Onslow's distinctive style, offering a rich and engaging listening experience. The septet is also divided into four movements, each showcasing the ensemble's virtuosity and the composer's ingenuity.
Onslow, known for his 34 string quintets, demonstrates his versatility and innovation in these works. The Nonet in A minor, Op. 77, originally enjoyed some popularity and was later arranged as a sextet for piano and winds, Op. 77b. This album offers a rare opportunity to explore Onslow's lesser-known but equally compelling chamber music repertoire.