NEW MUSIC AND RECORDINGS

Sol Schoenbach and Otto Eifert Play Bassoon Duos GS--216 $8.98
(Gasparo Records, P.O. Box 210069, Nashville, Tennessee, 37212).

This excellent recording by two of America's finest bassoonists features traditional duos by Almenraeder (Op. 10 No. 1) and Devienne (Op. 3 No. 2) and two new works: the Suite by the Hungarian composer Istvan Szelenyi (published by EMB), and a newly discovered Sonata Para Dois Fagotes by the Brazilian composer, Francisco Mignone. The latter work is a very interesting rhythmic composition, featuring sonorities and rhythms reminiscent of South American music. (The music is published by Solotto Publications and sold through the Allegro Woodwind Supply, 1954 Devils Backbone Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45238 - $11.00 for score and parts.) All the works are beautifully played with the two bassoons and bassoonists --"mentor and pupil"--resonating almost as one. It is also a very well recorded and pressed record. I recommend it highly.

The same can also be said for the newly released record of our Honorary Member, Fredrich Moritz (RAHMP No. 3, 3311 Scadlock Lane, Sherman Oaks, California 91403.) This work features the thrilling artistry of Moritz in various works for solo and bassoon ensemble, including the Mozart Sonata K. 292 with Moritz exquisitely playing both the bassoon and the cello parts (!) the Adagio movement from the Weber Concerto, the complete Devienne Concerto (originally called the Mozart Second Concerto) and the Finale of the Weissenborn Trios with fellow bassoonists Ray Nowlin and Don Christlieb. Besides the beautiful performances, the record jacket contains a short biography of Moritz written with care and deep respect by Don Christlieb. Although these recordings date from 1940-1950, they are most impressive and sound as if they had been done with much more recent equipment. This is especially true of the Mozart Sonata. Even where the recording does show its age, Moritz's beautiful tone and impeccable technique soar over this minor obstacle with ease, and will readily re-establish his great artistry for the new generation of bassoonists who, until now, have known him only as an historical figure. Highest marks to this beautiful recording.

Other new recordings recently released include:

• 1. 18th Century Concerti for Bassoon, Strings and Continuo, Daniel Smith, Bassoon; Ravinia Chamber Ensemble works include the Concerto in C by J. F. Fasch; the Concerto in Bb by J. G. Graun; and the Concerto in C Minor by Christoph Graupner (Spectrum Records, SR-130) [or cassette SC-230], Harriman New York, 10926.
• 2. Three Worlds by Mel Graves, featuring George Marsh, percussion, Andy Narell, steel drums, Mel Graves, contrabass and Julie Feves, bassoon. 1750 Arch Records (S-1780) 1750 Arch Street, Berkeley, CA 94709 (415) 841 -0216.

NEW MUSIC:

• 1. Composites for Marimba and Bassoon was recently premiered by the composer, Dean Witten, and Laurence Stewart, bassoon, at Glassboro State College, New Jersey. It is published by Southern Music Company (ST-246), San Antonio, Texas ($5)
• 2. Woodwind Quintet #2 by Frigyes Hidas was recently given its American premiere by the Jackson (Mississippi) Wind Quintet. Bassoonist Gregory Cukro writes concerning the piece ". . . I feel that this work needs to be publicized among the ranks of wind players. It contains much European jazz and is easily accessible to audiences. . ." The work is available through General Music/Serenus Music, 145 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. 10522

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