THE PERFORMANCE: Divertimentos were essentially an 18th century jukebox, licensing composers to flaunt the full spectrum of their melodic dexterity over light, bite-sized chunks. But The Fibonacci Sequence wants you to know that Schubert's Octet is as inventive as the best of his work. The Adagio's tender melodic caress (led by Julian Farrell's gold-toned clarinet) and the accumulated emotional drive of the Variations (violinist Jack Liebeck shines) is quintessential Schubert. I'm also liking the Allegro's vaudeville humour and that raw-boned double bass introduction to a Finale that teems with harmonic adventure. THE VERDICT: Disc of the Year material, I'd say. The Fibonaccis sound like they're having a ball........ Why you'll love this: THE DIVERTIMENTO SPIRIT Divertimentos can fall between art and entertainment, but the Fibonacci Sequence nails the appropriate tone. The Adagio movement has a profound sense of gravitas; the Allegro's bawdy humour doesn't become too tasteful. ENSEMBLE BRILLIANCE The Fibonacci players think, move and phrase as one: listen to their perfect poise as they springboard from Schubert's Adagio introduction into the opening Allegro. Much appreciation, too, of Stephen Stirling's horn leaps! VIGOROUS VARIATIONS Schubert put a whole world of expression inside his Variations: here, each member of the ensemble sparkles as Schubert's base theme is transformed into melodic gold over a refined palette of instrumental colour. Editor's Choice, Classic FM
To order any of these CDs please email Kathron Sturrock: kathron@me.com with your name and address.
