Ahead of AWO Chamber 8’s Australian tour, the bassoonist shares his favourite things about chamber music.

The Australian World Orchestra’s Chamber 8 – eight of Australia’s finest musicians on the international stage – will tour the country in July. Bassoonist Lyndon Watts is the fourth of the eight to answer Limelight‘s Eight for Chamber 8.

Lyndon Watts, Australian World Orchestra, Chamber 8Bassoonist Lyndon Watts

1. What is your favourite piece of chamber music and why?

Dancing in the Dark as performed by Cannonball Adderley on the jazz album Somethin’ Else. The best jazz groups and rock bands are comprised of highly skilled chamber musicians. The whole ensemble often performs by memory and the artists are constantly composing, arranging and recording new songs and albums. This particular album with Miles Davis is one of the finest examples of chamber music I have ever heard, demonstrating an excellent rapport between the musicians. My favourite pieces of chamber music are the rarities mentioned in the next question.

2. Three little-known chamber works that deserve to be heard more often?

Antonio Vivaldi’s Concerti da Camera for Flute, Violin, Oboe, Bassoon and Continuo RV105 and RV107

Anton Reicha’s Grand Quintetto...