Search - André Messager, Georges Marty, Reynaldo Hahn :: Solos de Concours

Great CD

Donald G. Hite III | Houston, Tx USA | 05/21/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I don't know how a previous reviewer could say Soames doesn't have very good technique. Her playing on all pieces is superb, particularly Bucolique. While I don't agree, I can see how a purist might find her sound uncharacteristic for these French pieces. Personally, I think listeners should consider each players as an individual and avoid lumping them into categories and judging them by how closely they resemble the "British" or "French" sound. The debate over who has the "best" sound will never be resolved, so it's wise (and more interesting) to appreciate the diversity of sounds/approaches to the clarinet rather than comparing them to a single, non-existent ideal.Soames has a unique sound, which I personally think is beautiful and a welcome change from the many cookie-cutter clarinetists who are out there who are more concerned with sounding "French" than with being themselves. I highly recommend this recording. Even if her sound isn't ideal in your mind, her interpretations are great and worth hearing!"

French Clarinet Music

Christy Diane Foster | Broken Arrow, OK United States | 10/30/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This c.d. is a great mix of some of the best known and often unrecorded clarinet music that really needs to be heard. I have purchased this c.d. because I wanted to hear Bucolique by Eugene Bozza, it is the ONLY recording I have been able to track down. The music on this c.d. is performed by a talented clarinetist, whom we can thank for recording these French pieces that clarinetists all over the world can appreciate-I know I certainly do. Check out Solos De Concours and take advantage of the discount that they have offered on this great collection!"