Few listeners are likely to be familiar with more than one of the three composers whose works are presented on this CD—if any at all. Rodolphe Kreutzer is probably the best known, not least as the dedicatee of Beethoven's Violin Sonata Opus 47 in A major and as the author of the 42 Etudes or Caprices. The name Reicha is familiar to music historians, but his compositions have largely been forgotten since his death in 1836. Crusell, one of the most famous clarinetists, whose pieces are frequently used in teaching, never truly established himself in concert life.
The combination of solo wind instruments and string trios or quartets is generally considered successful. The addition of a flute, oboe, or clarinet to a string quartet often evokes the lighthearted music of the 18th century. Crusell's Oboe Quintet Opus 9, in particular, with its title "Divertimento," clearly reflects this convivial character.
Bernhard Henrik Crusell, who came from a Finnish family of bookbinders, showed early musical talent. His training as a clarinetist and his compositional work quickly brought him recognition. Vogler, with whom Crusell studied music theory, was impressed by his works. Although the structure of Crusell's Divertimento in C major appears traditional at first glance, its form is actually original and innovative.
Rodolphe Kreutzer was not only a renowned violinist but also created numerous compositions, including the Grand Quintet in C major. His chamber music was primarily composed in the 1790s. Antoine Reicha, a respected music educator and composer of the late 18th century, wrote the Quintet in F major, Opus 107, which, compared to the other works, is considered more classical. Nevertheless, Reicha's originality and technical mastery are undeniable.