Sessions Recital: Chamber – Kathleen McLean

Renowned Canadian bassoonist Kathleen McLean presented a captivating chamber recital at IDRS 2022, reaffirming her status as a versatile and deeply expressive artist. In this session, McLean partnered with a select ensemble of fellow musicians to deliver a richly varied program that explored the lyrical, textural, and dialogic possibilities of chamber music centered on the bassoon. Her performance was a masterclass in collaboration, nuance, and musical storytelling.

The recital featured an engaging blend of traditional and contemporary works, with repertoire spanning classical staples and lesser-known gems. McLean’s warm, resonant tone provided a solid foundation throughout, whether anchoring ensemble textures or emerging as a melodic voice. The program’s variety—from lyrical duets to rhythmically intricate ensemble pieces—highlighted her adaptability and expressive range, while also allowing space for her collaborators to shine.

What distinguished this recital was its conversational intimacy. Rather than dominating the stage, McLean embraced the essence of chamber music: equal dialogue and shared interpretation. Her musical exchanges with oboists, clarinetists, string players, and pianists were marked by clarity, sensitivity, and mutual trust. Whether in delicate phrasing or lively counterpoint, her attentiveness to balance and blend elevated the ensemble experience.

Several contemporary works were included, some of which reflect McLean’s advocacy for expanding the bassoon’s chamber repertoire. These selections added freshness and contrast to the recital, offering audiences a glimpse into the evolving sound world of the bassoon. Extended techniques, jazz-inflected harmonies, and playful rhythmic interactions added dynamic color and modern energy to the performance.

The recital was met with warm enthusiasm from the audience, many of whom were struck by both McLean’s artistry and her ability to make the bassoon feel central and integral to the chamber setting. Her command of tone, breath, and line was matched by a profound musical intelligence, resulting in a performance that was both technically refined and emotionally resonant.

In sum, Chamber – Kathleen McLean was more than just a recital—it was a showcase of the bassoon’s expressive depth and its place in a diverse chamber landscape. Through thoughtful repertoire choices and exquisite ensemble playing, McLean left a lasting impression as both a performer and a champion of chamber music for double reeds.