“This disc is another thrilling demonstration of the artistry of clarinetist Jonathan Cohler…Cohler is a true ‘descendant’ of Mühlfeld and there is no doubt both Brahms and Clara Schumann would have waxed as lyrical over his playing as they did over the music of his illustrious ‘predecessor’. All three works are played with enthusiasm, verve and panache by all concerned and the disc is enjoyable from start to finish…with Jonathan Cohler anchoring proceedings throughout with his consummate skill…boundless energy and joy in making music.”
   —MusicWeb International, Steve Arloff

“The Boston-based clarinetist Jonathan Cohler always seems to put on a good show, and he does here…Cohler and his collaborators have a professionalism and artistic commitment that is difficult to match…these renditions [of Beethoven and Brahms] by Cohler, Kwong, and Julia Bruskin may rank among the best. The Beethoven sparkles with daring tempos, driving intensity, and a highly expressive lyricism...the interpretation works. The Brahms, too, is deeply moving…Cohler and his colleagues make [the Dohnányi] a treat to hear, finding a remarkable balance between contrapuntal clarity and late romantic fire.”
   —American Record Guide

“a spirited, stylish account of Beethoven’s early Trio, and a performance of the late Trio by Brahms which generates real intensity through subdued dynamics, eloquent phrasing and responsive teamwork…all brought off with precision and panache...altogether a splendidly enjoyable programme, with Cohler’s extensive notes (including a timely defense of vibrato on the clarinet) an interesting bonus.” [BBC Music CHOICE • Performance 5 Stars]
   —BBC Music Magazine

“the recording is ideal…and the playing is uniformly lovely…Cohler plays some exquisite pianissimos, Julia Bruskin matches him in beauty of sound and expression, and the ensemble overall is uncannily, highly nuanced. This version definitely takes its place on my shelf along with the other great stereo recordings of the Trio: Leister/ Donderer/ Eschenbach (DG), Wright/ Eskin/ Kalish (Nonesuch, LP), and Shifrin/ Carr/ Golub (Arabesque)…I know of no finer recording of the Beethoven, and this one stands with the best classic versions of the Brahms.”
   —Fanfare Magazine