Richard Stoltzman - Alchemy (LP)

Richard Stoltzman's 1998 album "Alchemy" is a captivating exploration of chamber music, showcasing his virtuosity on the clarinet. This album features a diverse collection of pieces, with the centerpiece being William Thomas McKinley's Concerto for Clarinet No.3 "The Alchemical." This four-movement concerto is a journey through the stages of alchemy, from the somber "Nigredo: Dirge" to the lively "Albedo: Allegro," the brilliant "Citrinitas: Molto brillante e luminoso," and the playful "Rubedo: Scherzo diabolico." The album also includes "Arundo Donax" by Burt Fenner and another "Clarinet Concerto," offering a blend of contemporary and classical influences. Accompanied by the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of George Manahan, Stoltzman delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. With a total runtime of 56 minutes, "Alchemy" is a testament to Stoltzman's artistry and his ability to breathe new life into both familiar and lesser-known works.