Although Max Reger's organ works are considered to be extremely important to the repertoire, the rest of his music is often ignored by both performers and consumers. His chamber music is a very special part of his vast output, and perhaps this recording will expose new listeners to some of its charms. The Clarinet Quintet is melodically strong, a reflection of Reger's consistently kind treatment of the clarinet. Berlin Philharmonic lead clarinetist Wenzel Fuchs shines alongside his colleagues,...

"Philharmonia Quartett Berlin (Jan. 14, Lincoln Hall): The third Portland appearance of four members of the great Berlin Philharmonic -- three section leaders and a member of the illustrious cello section -- was a glorious and illuminating hat trick, presented by Friends of Chamber Music. A model of exquisite balance and understated brilliance, they made thoughtful, poignant conversations of quartets by Felix Mendelssohn and Robert Schumann, and brought the same warmth and human scale to Anton Webern's 'Five Movements' and György Kurtag's fascinating, tiny '12 Microludes.'"