A single year younger than Berlioz, who had some good words for her, Louise Farrenc lived through busy times in Paris. Her music reflects many interests, from the most romantic side of Mozart to Spohr’s chromaticism, from the craftsmanship of Hummel to the fantasy of Weber and especially Schumann (who was also respectful). The Scherzo of her E minor Trio would do credit to Mendelssohn. At the back of her invention was a first-rate training from Reicha, but also an ear for the subtlety which cannot be learnt, only nurtured. Everything she writes in these three wind works is beautifully textured, with a range of colour and variety of timbre that are an essential part of the invention.
Inevitably, such a variety of manners suggests the lack of a real creative centre. Yet she is an unfailingly inventive composer, and one of great wit and charm. These qualities are very much appreciated by the players here, who clearly enjoy the considerable challenges which she can set them as well as relishing the brilliant part-writing and the delightfully original combinations of instruments. Farrenc is a very sympathetic composer, whose music can give great pleasure in a way that excites intelligent interest without making very serious demands. These three pieces make an extremely attractive compilation, one which deserves a following from collectors interested in exploring a little way off the beaten track of French romanticism. The recording is suitably lively and colourful.'