Five Bagatelles Op 23 - Finzi

Clarinet Sonata in F minor Op 120 No 1 - Brahms

Premiere Rhapsodie - Debussy

The Carnival of Venice - Giampieri

Alamiro Giampieri (1893 - 1963) may not be a familiar name to most of us, but his works on clarinet technique are revered by students of the instrument. His Carnival of Venice is a frothy, 19th century-style display piece which demands a quick-silver technique, something Emma Johnson can supply without apparent effort. Nonetheless, it was her artistry rather than her technique which made the greatest impression in this recital.

Johnson plays with technical assurance, a liquid tone, and great sensitivity, particularly in quieter, dynamic shading. Over and above this, she can capture and project the inner feeling of a phrase and hold the audience's concentration. These qualities were evident even in the rather faded Bagatelles by Gerald Finzi.

The main problem in this opening item lay with John Lenehan's wooden, overbearing accompaniment. But a discreet change of position to a seat only a few feet away yielded a more satisfactory balance for the Brahms sonata. Lenehan's playing here was not only more sympathetic, but also wider in dynamic range, effectively matching Johnson's delicate pianissimos. I still think that it would do no harm if pianists who are performing with other artists in this venue were to play with the piano lid lowered.

Both artists sparkled in the Debussy Rhapsodie. Written as an examination piece for the Paris Conservatoire, it's a lot more engaging than its origin would seem to suggest.