Octet in F Major, op. 166, D. 803
for clarinet, horn, bassoon, 2 violins, viola, cello and double bass
From Schubert: Octet D. 803 (2018)
Released by Harmonia Mundi
Schubert: Octet in F Major, op. 166, D. 803
A mysterious beauty in response to a commission from Count Troyer, who wanted a work closely modelled on Beethoven’s famous Septet op.20, Schubert – despite his fervent admiration for the older composer – resolutely struck out on his own by delivering an . . . Octet. While the enlarged forces opened his path towards symphonic writing, examination of the form and expression reveals a much more accomplished and personal composition than has generally been recognised by commentators. Isabelle Faust and her partners, enthralled by what is an exceptional work in every respect, offer us a new interpretation of it on period instruments.
