Friedrich Berr (1794-1838) was a German clarinettist, bassoonist and composer, born in Mannheim. As he moved to France he took a position in a wind band as a bassoonist. Later he took up the clarinet, becoming a player of a very high level. In Paris, he studied composition under the guidance of François-Joseph Fétis and Anton Reicha. In 1823 he moved to Paris for good and initially became second clarinettist at the Théâtre Italien. In 1831 he was appointed clarinet professor at the Paris Conservatory, and became the first clarinettist in the orchestra of the Théâtre Italien in 1833. He became friends with Rossini and arranged many of his works for wind ensemble. Berr composed a substantial corpus of clarinet repertoire including two clarinet concertos, many clarinet duos, 11 Airs variès, 11 Solos, 28 Fantasies and around 500 compositions and arrangements for wind band of operas. This recording presents Fantasies on popular opera arias and overtures, a festive display of instrumental virtuosity and melodious charm. Played by The Italian Consort and Luigi Magistrelli, one of the foremost clarinet players of Italy. He made many recordings for Brilliant Classics with works by C.P.E. Bach (95307), Giuliani (95541), Kummer (94472), Archduke Rudolph (94952), Rebay (94171) and Fuchs (96305). ‘Luigi Magistrelli is a skilled artist, with the fingers and the enthusiasm for Weber.’ Gramophone.