The award-winning clarinetist Sam Boutris’ first studio recording, Phases, is released via Musica Solis. The album includes works by Robert Schumann, Claude Debussy, Carl Nielsen and other recital favourites with the acclaimed pianist Sophiko Simsive...

Phases contains 8 tracks (47 min, 11 sec) from composers Louis Cahuzac, Robert Schumann, Luigi Bassi, Claude Debussy, Carl Nielsen and Carl Maria von Weber, all performed by clarinetist Sam Boutris and pianist Sophiko Simsive.

What I really loved about this release was the fact that the net is cast far to bring the listener a collection of widely differing styles, which all fit beautifully together. Debussy's 'Clair de Lune' is always a pleasure to hear, and Boutris' arrangement keeps it fresh and invigorating.

Cahuzac's 'Cantilène' is intricate and is a wonderful way to open the album and showcase Boutris' emotional rapport with his instrument. Track after track the tempo and mood shifts radically, yet the listener still gets to experience a laid back, wonderfully mellow collection of familiar pieces.

This is a delightfully engaging album that you'll be eager to revisit time and time again.

Track listing

Louis Cahuzac
01. Cantilène (4:50)

Robert Schumann
Three Romances, Op. 94
02. Nicht schnell (3:31)
03. Einfach, innig (3:58)
04. Nicht schnell (4:30)

Luigi Bassi
05. Fantasy on Themes from Verdi's "Rigoletto" (12:22)

Claude Debussy (arr. by Sam Boutris)
06. Suite Bergamasque, L. 75: III. Clair de Lune (4:36)

Carl Nielsen
07. Fantasy Piece for Clarinet and Piano in G minor (4:04)

Carl Maria von Weber
08. Andante e Rondo Ungarese, Op.35 (9:16)

9

Darren Rea