Danzi: Wind Quintets, Op. 56, Nos. 1-3; Sextet in E flat major

The Wind Quintets of Danzi are a slightly lighter-weight counterpart to those of Anton Reicha--solid late-classical music; and in Danzi's case without any pretensions to importance. If you like entertainment for winds, though, this is an excellent disc. The ensemble maintains the same relaxed, genial style found on its Reicha discs, pleasing while remaining alert to interpretation. Considering the quality of the music, the playing, the recording sound, and the generous program, this disc is yet another outstanding Naxos bargain, and a delectably cheap way to investigate music that may be unfamiliar. --Leslie Gerber Amazon.com

A delight

Top ranking for this delightful hour of music from Franz Danzi with kudos to the Michael Thompson Wind Quartet and associates Robert Hill and John Price, who join them in the Sextet.

I've heard a lot of boring Danzi in 30 years collecting LPs, reel to reel tapes, cassettes and CDs. Here is the very best Danzi performance I've ever heard, with bright, full throated playing, perfect intonation and joy throughout.

The average listener might confuse these cheery performances for the music of Rossini or Krommer, two other composers this group has recorded. It is clear this group carries out the music with discipline yet festive, tuneful, toe-tapping rigor. Nothing appears to be work or pedantry; everything is merriment. To top off this wonderful package, the recording quality is top notch, perhaps a shade or two better than the average Naxos issue.

Listen to tracks 1, 9 or 13 to get an idea of the wonder of this CD. Anyone that likes woodwind music will enjoy this music. It pretends to do no more than entertain and it does so in spades. All this for $7! Buy without fear or guilt and get on the happiness train at your earliest convenience. February 9, 2005

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