Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803 Wigmore Soloists

• Franz Schubert (1797 - 1828): Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803:
• 1 Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803: I. Adagio 14:37
• 2 Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803: II. Adagio 11:17
• 3 Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803: III. Allegro vivace 06:20
• 4 Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803: IV. Andante 11:50
• 5 Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803: V. Menuetto 07:25
• 6 Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803: VI. Andante molto 09:23
• Total Runtime 01:00:52

Info for Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803

Formed in 2020, Wigmore Soloists is a chamber ensemble made up of a roster of outstanding musicians, led by Isabelle van Keulen and Michael Collins. An associate ensemble of the iconic London concert venue Wigmore Hall, it is the first one to be given the honour of using the name. The core line-up of string quintet, wind quintet and piano makes it possible to perform a wide and varied repertoire, and for its first recording the ensemble has chosen one of the larger works in the chamber music literature, in terms of duration as well as the forces involved.

Franz Schubert modelled his Octet in F major on Beethoven’s Septet, a work which during the 24 years since its composition had proven extremely popular in Vienna. Schubert therefore copied Beethoven’s instrumentation (with the addition of a second violin) as well as his general plan of six movements. The Octet is however almost half as long again as the Septet, perhaps a consequence of Schubert wanting to ‘pave the way towards a grand symphony’ by writing it. Like Beethoven – and Mozart in his serenades – Schubert strikes a perfect balance between entertainment and sophistication, while also including plenty of opportunities for the players – especially the first violinist and clarinettist – to show off their virtuosity.

Wigmore Soloists

Wigmore Soloists
Formed in 2020, Wigmore Soloists is a chamber ensemble made up of a roster of outstanding musicians, led by Isabelle van Keulen and Michael Collins and created in collaboration with John Gilhooly, director of Wigmore Hall. The innovative en - semble performs repertoire both old and new, and commissions leading composers to expand further upon the extensive catalogue of chamber music works. The large core line-up of string quintet, wind quintet and piano makes it possible to perform a wide and varied repertoire and the members are dedicated to revitalising great works at the highest artistic level. Taking the name of one of the world’s most iconic concert halls (the first time an ensemble has been given this honour), the group gives regular concerts at Wigmore Hall and in other major venues around the world.

Booklet for Schubert: Octet in F Major, Op. Posth. 166, D. 803