Here With You
Cedille, 2021
8/10
A stunning collaboration between the clarinetist Anthony McGill and the pianist Gloria Chien, the pair interpret the works of Johannes Brahms, Carl Maria von Weber and Jessie Montgomery on this very sincere effort born out of a ‘shared expression of beauty and friendship’.
Brahms’ “Sonata in F minor for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 120, No. 1” opens the listen with the keys and clarinet interacting with much grace and adventurousness, as the 4 movements unfold with often quick movements that showcase the precise playing from the duo, and “Sonata in E-flat major for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 120, No. 2” follows with the tonality of the clarinet explored with sublime and fascinating playing.
The back half of the listen offers the heartfelt and stirring “Peace”, where the two rework the Montgomery piece with a very soothing and poetic demeanor amid the world premiere recording of this piano and clarinet version, and von Weber’s “Grand Duo Concertant, Op. 48 finishes the listen with a swift and dynamic meshing of fluid melodies and divine chemistry between McGill and Chien.
McGill holds down the principal clarinet of New York Philharmonic and Chien often performs with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. Together, their vast skill recruits classical and chamber prowess that makes the most out of every second present here.
Travels well with: Dover Quartet- Beethoven Complete String Quartets Volume 2: The Middle Quartets; Will Liverman- Dreams Of A New Day