Venture beyond the familiar canon with these charming septets by Conradin Kreutzer and Friedrich Witt. Rich in colour, elegant and effortlessly virtuosic, these works unveil the vibrant chamber music tradition that flourished alongside Beethoven. Performed with finesse and warmth by the Charis Ensemble, this album stands as an enriching addition to the connoisseur’s collection.

Kreutzer’s Septet in E-flat major unfolds with charm and wit, full of elegant turns and conversational interplay between winds and strings. The Charis Ensemble shape each phrase with sensitivity, allowing the music’s lightness and grace to emerge naturally. Witt’s Septet in F major delights through lyrical invention, with melodies that are both accessible and engaging. Its seamless flow and refined balance echo Beethoven’s influence while maintaining a distinctive voice that favours elegance over grandeur.

The Charis Ensemble bring these rediscovered works to life with evident enjoyment and stylistic assurance. Their playing combines precision with a genuine sense of dialogue, highlighting the music’s charm without sacrificing depth. From the sonorous tones of the double bass to the refined lyricism of the clarinet, the ensemble balances warmth with transparency and sophistication.