French Beauties and Swedish Beasts

This album features an eclectic mix of compositions for clarinet and piano, showcasing works by Debussy, Saint-Saëns, Poulenc, Lidholm, Hillborg, and Pontinen. Debussy's "Première Rhapsodie" opens the album, highlighting the clarinet's rich colors. Poulenc's "Sonata for Clarinet and Piano," written in memory of Arthur Honegger, follows, performed at Poulenc's own memorial concert. Saint-Saëns' "Clarinet Sonata" reflects his melodic wind writing. Lidholm's "Amicizia," written for his friend Ingmar Bengtsson's 60th birthday, adds a lyrical touch. Hillborg's "Tampere Raw" and Pontinen's "Mercury Dream" bring contemporary Swedish flair, rounding off a diverse and vibrant collection performed by clarinetist Martin Fröst and pianist Roland Pöntinen.