Clarinettist Lesley Schatzberger and the Fitzwilliam String Quartet, both of whom have established well-deserved reputations for thoughtfully delivered and historically considered performances, present works by Brahms, Mozart, Glazunov and Sweeney.

At the centrepiece is the Brahms Clarinet Quintet in B minor, which in their hands carries particular historical significance. Brahms was originally inspired to write the Quintet after hearing clarinettist Richard Mühlfeld perform. Lesley Schatzberger performs on a specially-made copy made of Mühlfeld’s own clarinet, and the performers adhere to certain aspects of performance practice which were in favour at that time, while embracing Brahms’ attitude to rhythm, tempo and rubato, creating a truly authentic feel.

The programme also includes a rare Mozart Quintet movement in B flat major, completed by Duncan Druce, which is one of several unfinished Mozart works which are still being realised today, as well as Glazunov’s haunting Rêverie Orientale and An Òg-Mhadainn (The Young Morning) by Scottish contemporary composer William Sweeney.

Founded in 1968 by four Cambridge undergraduates, the Fitzwilliam String Quartet first became well known through their close personal association with Dmitri Shostakovich, who entrusted them with the Western premières of his last three quartets.

Lesley Schatzberger has been at the forefront of historical instrument performance since her student days and has taken part in pioneering performances of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven on period instruments.

‘The enterprising couplings here are a real bonus… Linn's recording is perfection.’ - BBC Music

‘A historically informed performance with a remarkable range of colours. Recommended.’ - IRR

‘Lesley Schatzberger…gives a fascinating and attractive performance.’ - Gramophone

Recording of the Month: ‘This is a challenging disc for all the right reasons.’ - MusicWeb International