Clarinet Concertos

Released in 1997 by the label ASV, this collection brings together essential Romantic-era works for the clarinet, performed by the acclaimed British soloist Emma Johnson accompanied by the English Chamber Orchestra under the baton of Gerard Schwarz. The album focuses on the virtuosic repertoire of the early 19th century, featuring concertos by Carl Maria von Weber, Louis Spohr, and the Finnish composer Bernhard Henrik Crusell. This period was pivotal for the instrument, as advancements in key mechanisms allowed composers to write more complex, expressive pieces that showcased the clarinet’s agility and vocal-like qualities.

Emma Johnson’s interpretation of these concertos was widely praised for its technical precision and lyrical warmth, solidifying her reputation as one of the preeminent clarinetists of her generation. By selecting a program that highlights the interplay between the soloist and the orchestral textures of the English Chamber Orchestra, the recording serves as a definitive exploration of the clarinet's evolution during the Romantic transition. The album remains a staple for those interested in the chamber-orchestral tradition of the late 20th century, noted for the clean, balanced production typical of ASV’s classical catalog.