Bram van Sambeek - Fagerlund & Aho: Bassoon Concertos (LP)

Bram van Sambeek, a virtuoso bassoonist, presents an exquisite collection of chamber music with his album "Fagerlund & Aho: Bassoon Concertos." Released on October 7, 2016, under the BIS label, this album is a testament to van Sambeek's mastery of his instrument and his ability to bring to life the intricate compositions of Finnish composers Magnus Fagerlund and Kalevi Aho.

The album features a single, expansive work: the Bassoon Concerto "Mana" by Magnus Fagerlund, a piece that spans four movements and showcases the full range of the bassoon's expressive capabilities. From the contemplative "Andante" to the lively "Vivace," the haunting "Passacaglia. Adagio - Cadenza," and the energetic "Presto," van Sambeek navigates each movement with technical precision and emotional depth.

In addition to the concerto, the album includes two standalone pieces: "Woodlands" and "Solo V," both of which offer a glimpse into the diverse musical landscapes that van Sambeek explores. The entire album clocks in at just over an hour and sixteen minutes, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.

For fans of chamber music and those eager to discover the bassoon's potential, Bram van Sambeek's "Fagerlund & Aho: Bassoon Concertos" is a captivating journey through the works of two notable contemporary composers.