Concerto No. 2 (Grand), Op. 5 / Concertino, Op. 26 / Adagio / Introduction, Theme And Variations

Released in 1994 by the ASV Digital label, this recording showcases the virtuosic clarinet repertoire of the Romantic era, specifically focusing on the works of Carl Maria von Weber and Bernhard Henrik Crusell. The album features clarinetist Emma Johnson performing alongside the English Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Sir Charles Groves. These pieces, including the demanding Concerto No. 2, were originally composed to exploit the full range and expressive capabilities of the clarinet, reflecting the 19th-century fascination with the instrument's vocal-like agility and tonal depth.

The album serves as a prominent example of Emma Johnson's interpretation of classical and romantic clarinet concertos, an area for which she gained significant acclaim early in her career. Her approach to these works, particularly those by Weber, is characterized by a balance of technical precision and lyricism, aimed at highlighting the dialogue between the soloist and the chamber orchestra. Upon its release, the recording was well-regarded for its crisp production quality and for bringing lesser-heard Crusell works into the standard concert repertoire for general listeners.