Centenary Tribute to Frederick Thurston (1901 – 1953)

Known to many through his reputation, but to much fewer through his playing, this historic CD gives an opportunity to hear one of Britain’s most distinguished clarinettists, Frederick Thurston. Dating from the first half of the 20th Century the recordings of the Bliss Quintet with the Griller Quartet and “Caoine” by Stanford, provides a fascinating insight into this major musical figure, whose reticence to record makes these rare recordings even more precious. While only a single movement, Gaining permission from his wife and former student Thea King to include Stanford’s ‘Caoine‘, along side the Bliss Quintet, was a significant as it shows the musical intensity that perhaps British players  of the day felt less able to expose.

Also included on this disc are performances from Thurston’s widow and former student, the eminent clarinettist Thea King of works by Rawsthorne and Jacob. Aside from her own successful professional career,  worked tirelessly to protect and promote the legacy of husband of only a few years, before his untimely death.

Working closely with King in preparing this recording project makes this release even more special. This recording is dediacted to these two great clarinet figures of the 20th century, who profoundly enriched  future generations of clarinet players through their teaching, performances and legacy of great works, some of which can be enjoyed on these recordings.

• Bliss – Clarinet Quintet (Griller Quartet)
• Stanford – ‘Caoine‘, from Sonata Op. 129 (Myers Foggin, piano)
• Gordon Jacob – Quintet (The Aeolian quartet) 
• Rawsthorne – Quartet (members of the Aeolian Quartet)

‘I cannot imagine a better tribute to a fine artist than the wonderful musicianship on display throughout this issue.’
INTERNATIONAL RECORD REVIEW

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Playing Time: 79 mins.

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