The fact that Polish music has not seen many examples of the piano trio genre is the reason why this compilation of trios written by five composers deserves special attention.

A clue to the work’s form and character is contained in the first word of the title as explained by the composer is his written commentary: “this is a work of a freely interpreted fantasy genre"

Three exceptional pieces on a single CD: romantic, colourful and emotional Sonata by Strauss; Shostakovich's gloomy, dark, monumental and – at times – ironic and grotesque Sonata, and finally the Ciaconna

Therefore, this album seems to be even more valuable, fully depicting the baritone-bass character of the bassoon and its spectacular capabilities in all registers of the instrument.

All of the 23 works by Karol Lipiński in our CD set represent the highest technical standards of composition, and the two Trios Op. 8 and Op. 12 are, in my view, the work of genius.

The works of Aleksander Nowak (b. 1979) belong to this quite strong movement of revival. While steering clear from any dogmatic tone, neither embracing nor rejecting, they mostly maintain an interroga tive stance, and even if from time to time the mode changes to affirmative, everything ends in a hush, as if with suspension points.

With this CD, containing works by Debussy, Ibert, Poulenc, Ferroud, Jolivet and Messiaen, the listeners are invited to embark on a fascinating journey through French music of the 1st half of the 20th century, inspired by mythology, nature, life, and – most of all – by the rich palette of flute colours.

In the catalogue of Grażyna Bacewicz’s works (1909–1969), there are two piano quintets, dated 1952 and 1965.