Nonets for Wind & String Instruments;

Spohr s Nonet of 1813 is the first nonet written for this particular
combination of instruments, making conscious use of the distinctive
qualities and idiosyncrasies of each. For all its classical structural
characteristics and the unity of expression that Spohr creates with his
first pervasive theme, the nonet takes the listener on an unfamiliar
journey as each new phrase introduces a different palette. Onslow s
Nonet (recorded for the first time on historical instruments) is
startling from the very first bar! The force and volume of his opening
declamation, the virtuosity of the violin s first flourishes, and the
enormous range in each of the parts give the piece a distinctly
modern feeling.