Reicha published a total of 24 wind quintets for the “classical” scoring of flute, oboe, clarinet, horn, and bassoon; Op. 88, No. 2 is one of the best-loved and most played. “If it were possible to surpass Haydn in the composition of quartets and quintets, Reicha would have succeeded with these quintets,” thus raved the “Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung” on a performance of Reicha's quintets, “it seems to me that it is impossible to unite more correctness and clariety with more inventiveness and originality.” This work exudes inspiration and spirit from every note. In addition to the parts, we have also produced a handy study edition of the score.
