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Reginald Kell was one of the few clarinetists of his era to become famous as a soloist. He allied virtuoso technique with expressivity to achieve remarkable results. These performances of Mozart's major works for clarinet date from 1941 to 1945, Kell's prime, and despite the changes in style and fashion that have occurred over the years, they still hold their own. The fluid, graceful playing in the Concerto is matched in the chamber works, where he is partnered by outstanding British musicians of the period. Kell's rounded, cool tone sings sinuously in the Quintet's lovely Larghetto movement, and lends an aptly piquant touch to the perky Trio. Sound is period quality, thinner and scratchier than ideal, but quite listenable. --Dan Davis