Emma Johnson - A Clarinet Celebration (LP)

Emma Johnson's "A Clarinet Celebration" is a captivating journey through the world of classical and chamber music, released on January 1, 1990, under the Decca (UMO) label. This album showcases Johnson's virtuosity and versatility as a clarinetist, featuring a diverse collection of pieces that highlight her technical prowess and expressive depth.

The album opens with the Grand Duo Concertant, Op. 48, a three-movement work that demonstrates Johnson's dynamic range and precision. Following this, she performs the Duo for clarinet and piano, and Il Carnevale di Venezia, both of which showcase her ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her playing.

The Fantasiestücke, Op. 73, is a highlight of the album, featuring three movements that are both technically demanding and musically engaging. Johnson's performance of these pieces is marked by her impeccable timing and her ability to bring out the unique character of each movement.

The album concludes with the Variations Concertantes and the Fantasia da Concerto su motivi de "La Traviata" di G. Verdi, both of which showcase Johnson's ability to interpret and convey the complex emotions of these well-known works. With a total duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "A Clarinet Celebration" is a testament to Emma Johnson's artistry and her ability to bring new life to both familiar and lesser-known pieces.