The Moerae deals with the fate of humanity, and fire is displayed by the intensity of that piece and the Quintets by Etler and Welcher. All of these works are either now or will be stalwart standards of woodwind literature. We are particularly proud of the recordings on this CD. We have been told by the many people that have heard them that the CD is not only one of the best woodwind recordings ever made but stands up with the best of any kind of classical recording. All the spirits were with us: repertoire, performance, sound, recording all clicked.
The two Etler Quintets are staples in the woodwind quintet literature and have long been thought to be woodwind masterpieces. The Welcher Quintet No. 2 will also gain that stature. While we were recording this all the members of the Westwood Wind Quintet felt that it is probably one of the two or three best quintets ever written. The Moerae, with its interesting instrumentation, fascinating story line, and beautiful melodies, is a true work of art. “The Moerae” are the three fates who spin the thread of life, measure it, and cut it when they please.
The works were all recorded in late 2014. This is a world premiere recording of Welcher’s The Moerae and Quintet No. 2.
The Westwood Wind Quintet, established in 1959, has “an accumulation of instrumental polish and important repertory over a long period [which] has resulted in a treasurable sense of ensemble and musical solidity” – Los Angeles Times. “The Westwood Wind Quintet has a standard of ensemble playing that is nothing short of breathtaking.” – International Record Review
“The remarkable ensemblism and intonation of the Westwood Wind Quintet is well known. Welcher’s composition The Moerae...presents huge challenges to performers...the pointilistic unisions requie not only perfect intonation but also exact rhythmic execution. Both are accomplished flawlessly by the Westwood Wind Quintet...Notable in Westwood’s performance of Welcher’s Quintet No. 2 are its execution of unison octave writing, its solid blend of Klangfarben melodie, and its group dynamics. Special kudos go to oboist Peter Christ and flutist John Barcellona for their evocative playing in this work.” Erich Graf, The Flutist Quarterly
