Search - Jean Francaix, Mobius, Ashan Pillai :: Three Quintets

Fancy a tonic? Then make haste to this beautifully executed and produced anthology of chamber works by Frenchman Jean Françaix (1912-97). Some 55 years separate the two quintets for flute, string trio, and harp (composed in 1934 and 1989 respectively), and both will delight even the most jaded listener with their sparkling repartee and impeccable craftsmanship. The second quintet is an especially fetching confection, wonderfully melodious yet never trite (the "Notturno" slow movement touches real depths) and brimful of witty dialogue and relaxed bonhomie. A similarly deft, seemingly effortless resourcefulness illuminates the Piccoli Duetti, a delightful miniature suite for flute and harp dating from 1975. But in many ways, the most substantial piece here is the endearing Clarinet Quintet that Francaix wrote two years later for the Swiss virtuoso Eduard Brunner. Again, the writing displays a consummate refinement allied to a deceptively subtle cogency and considerable range of expression. Lovely, richly communicative performances one and all (soloist Robert Plane creates a dashingly eloquent impression in the Clarinet Quintet) and ideal late-night listening. --Andrew Achenbach