Frantisek Kramar (1759-1831) was born in Moravia (his name Krommer was adopted by him when settling in Germany and Austria), and held musical posts at several European courts, his last station being Kapellmeister of the Vienna Imperial Court. He was a famous and popular composer in his time, spoken of in the same breath as Haydn and Beethoven.

Krommer’s compositions are in perfect Viennese style, a combination of charm, transparency and instrumental brilliance. He wrote prolifically for a wide variety of instruments.

This new recording presents two of his masterworks: the Clarinet Quartet and Clarinet Quintet, substantial works which foreshadow the early Mendelssohn and Schumann.

This is excellent playing by Henk de Graaf, former solo clarinettist of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, who has already successfully recorded the Crusell Clarinet Quartets (BC93682), Octet Partitas by Krommer (BC93759) and Clarinet Concertos by Molter (BC93337).