Antonín Rejcha
(1770-1836)
Wind Quintet in C minor, Op. 91 #6
Wind Quintet in F Major, Op. 88 #6
Michael Thompson Wind Quintet
Naxos 8.554228 68:41
Variously known as Antonín, Antoine or Anton Rejcha or Reicha, this Bohemian composer is probably best known for his works for wind quintet. They are unfailingly tuneful and genial, and give each of the instruments its place in the spotlight. The above CD is but one of a number of Rejcha CDs on Naxos by this ensemble, and all are worthy of investigation. There are also quintets available on CPO.
Rejcha wrote in a number of genres including a number of symphonies that have been released on several Czech labels such as Panton, concertos, choral works and operas: you may need to work harder than usual to track these down, but the rewards are worth it.
