Calefax Reed Quintet is an ensemble heralded for their innovative approach to classical and contemporary chamber music, uniquely arranged for reed instruments. Hailing from the Netherlands, the group consists of five reed players: oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bass clarinet, and bassoon. Since its inception in 1985 by oboist Oliver Boekhoorn, clarinetist Ivar Berix, saxophonist Raaf Hekkema, bass clarinetist Jelte Althuis, and bassoonist Alban Wesly, Calefax has redefined the traditional wind quintet setup, enthralling audiences the world over with their virtuosic performances and compelling interpretations.
Calefax Reed Quintet is celebrated for their versatility, having a repertoire that spans from early music to contemporary pieces, often arranged by the members themselves. They are equally at home playing the complex rhythms of Moondog on "Moondog: New Amsterdam," as they are navigating the jazzy inflections of "An American Rhapsody." The quintet's discography showcases their wide-ranging appeal and interpretative prowess, with recordings such as "Dido & Aeneazz" demonstrating their innovative fusion of genres, reimagining classical works in a contemporary light. Through their diverse programming, which includes projects like "Romantic Kaleidoscope" and "Roaring Twenties," Calefax encapsulates the transformative power of a reed quintet, pushing the boundaries of classical music and offering new sonic experiences to their listeners.
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