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