AUSTRALIA ENSEMBLE
Catherine McCorkill – basset clarinet, clarinet
Dene Olding, Dimity Hall – violin
Irina Morozova – viola
Julian Smiles – cello
Tall Poppies TL131
The Mozart and Brahms clarinet quintets are popular choices for clarinettists to record. Perhaps less common is the decision to perform on basset clarinet such as in this rendition of the Mozart. In doing so, Cathy achieves the darker sonority perhaps intended by Mozart, who was fascinated with this particular instrument. The performance is wellserved by this sterling ensemble of ‘who’s who’ Australian string musicians. The quartet succeeds in contributing a unified character and tone quality whose vibrato conjures up an older style of playing (as opposed to the modern, clean lines of orchestral string performers). In considering this approach the aural focus remains on the soloist, who never strays from the traditional interpretation of Mozart’s work, particularly with regard to ornaments and tempi. If hindered by the technical and idiosyncratic challenges the basset clarinet inevitably presents, it is not apparent as the musical approach is very sustained and displays admirable breath control – Cathy McCorkill performs K.581 as it should be.
The Brahms quintet is where all parties’ qualities shine through. This is a stunning interpretation emulating the true essence of Brahms’ romantic style and a sound understanding is demonstrated by all performers. The balance between clarinet and quartet is highly appropriate whereby the individual parts are very coherent yet able to attain a collective sense of accompaniment. As a result the overall clarity makes for an exquisite performance. This can also be attributed to Belinda Webster, recording engineer and producer, who should be congratulated on capturing these composers’ works true to performer’s intentions.

With comprehensive programme notes by Professor Roger Covell and Catherine McCorkill, this CD may be comfortably added to the list of other such recordings from clarinettists around the world and will be ranked highly among them.

– Diana Tolmie