Embark on a captivating journey through the world of classical chamber music with Andreas Ottensamer's "New Era," released on Mercury Classics in February 2017. This exquisite collection showcases Ottensamer's virtuosity and versatility, featuring a blend of well-known concertos and lesser-heard gems, all performed with remarkable skill and artistry.
The album opens with Ottensamer's interpretation of the Clarinet Concerto in B Flat Major, a piece that highlights his technical prowess and expressive depth. The Concertino in B Flat Major, originally for clarinet and bassoon, has been transcribed for clarinet and cor anglais, offering a unique and intriguing listening experience. Ottensamer's renditions of these pieces are both sensitive and dynamic, showcasing his ability to bring out the nuances of each composition.
The album also features arrangements of arias from Mozart's operas, including "Se viver non degg'io" from "Mitridate" and "Batti batti o bel Masetto" from "Don Giovanni." These arrangements, for basset clarinet and flute, and basset horn and flute respectively, demonstrate Ottensamer's ability to adapt and reinterpret classical works in innovative ways.
The Clarinet Concerto No. 7 in E Flat Major, also known as the Darmstädter No. 1, rounds out the album. Ottensamer's performance of this concerto is a testament to his mastery of the clarinet, with a commanding presence and a keen sense of musicality.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "New Era" is a testament to Andreas Ottensamer's artistry and his ability to breathe new life into classical compositions. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
