Luigi Boccherini (1743-1805) was the leading Italian composer of chamber music during the last decades of the eighteenth century. His six Flute Quintets reflect the popularity of the instrument during his lifetime, both with professional and amateur musicians. The first and last quintets are the best of the set. No.1 is bright, lively and cheerful, with bouncy dotted rhythms in the first movement. No.6 is in D minor, a welcome change after so many major key dollops. It features more deeply considered themes and transitions (sounding interestingly like early Schubert), and quite naturally reverts to the major mode for the Allegretto’s second subject and the Minuetto’s trio. The remaining four quintets are agreeably attractive works, with alternating Andantino and Allegretto first movements. This is perfect music for upscale gatherings (well heeled readers could use this disc for their next soirée, assuming they chose not to hire real musicians). Michael Faust plays with lovely tone, and colorful phrasing, aided by the amiable Auryn Quartett. The sound is clear and warm. In sum, an enjoyable disc of lightweight, well-crafted fluff.
