Timothy Bonenfant presents a captivating exploration of the clarinet family in his album "Virko Baley: Multiple Personae — The Family of Clarinets." Released on December 15, 2014, under TNC Recordings, this album is a testament to Bonenfant's virtuosity and the remarkable versatility of the clarinet. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, the album features a diverse range of compositions that showcase the unique timbres and expressive capabilities of various clarinets, from the B-flat bass clarinet to the C clarinet.
The album opens with the Partita No. 4 for Clarinets and Piano, a multi-movement work that highlights the different registers and colors of the clarinet family. Each movement is performed on a different clarinet, offering a rich tapestry of sounds. The Partita is followed by "Persona II, 'Boris Lyatoshynsky'" for solo clarinet, a piece that demands technical precision and emotional depth.
Bonenfant's interpretation of "Treny-Laments I" for B-flat contrabass clarinet is particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to evoke profound emotion through his playing. The album also includes a collection of "Songs Without Words," each performed on a different clarinet, further demonstrating the instrument's expressive range.
"Orpheus Singing" for B-flat clarinet and piano is another highlight, with Bonenfant's nuanced performance bringing out the lyrical beauty of the piece. The album concludes with "Kolomyikas," a lively and energetic work that showcases Bonenfant's technical prowess.
Throughout the album, Bonenfant's playing is characterized by a deep understanding of the music and a keen sense of phrasing and dynamics. His performances are both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, making this album a standout in the clarinet repertoire. Whether you're a clarinet enthusiast or simply appreciate fine instrumental music, "Virko Baley: Multiple Personae — The Family of Clarinets" is sure to captivate and inspire.
