Here is a much-needed overview of Saint-Saëns’ finest chamber works, a sadly undervalued body of work whose exquisite craft and neo-classical sparkle never fail to delight. When you encounter the outward wit and vivacious scoring characterizing the Septet and the A minor Piano Quintet, you won’t stop smiling. The B-flat Piano Quartet charts darker, more ambitious expressive waters, while the refined Oboe, Bassoon, and Clarinet sonatas dating from the composer’s last year exploit each instrument’s fullest technical and expressive gamut. What effortless, nimble virtuosity the Nash Ensemble members consistently serve up, both collectively and individually! Examples: the Op. 79 Caprice’s sharply pointed woodwind chording and suave tempo transitions; the Piano Quintet Presto’s breathtaking clarity; and the logically danceable tempos in the Septet that differ from the relatively brasher Capuçon/Braley recording on Virgin Classics. Hyperion’s warm, spacious sonics significantly add to the immense listening pleasure that awaits you when you acquire this release–sooner rather than later. [6/22/2005]
