Fantasias on Operas

Opis albumu:

The 19th century was a significant time for both opera and the guitar. Opera was everywhere, and its characteristics gradually began to appear in other styles of music as composers tried to encapsulate the expressiveness and flexibility of the voice into their works. At the same time, the guitar underwent major changes in construction; this disc showcases pieces that combine these two major elements of 19th-century music, all of which are played by Roch Modrzejewski -- praised in Les Cahiers de la Guitare as an extraordinary, demanding, gifted and clever guitarist. The collection begins with Costes light and lively interpretations of Bellinis Norma and Il pirata, followed by Legnanis Cavatina from Ernani by Verdi, a simple piece that makes full use of all facets of the guitar. Then come the variations on a theme of Rossinis Otello, by the immensely important guitarist Giuliani, who shows off his skill by combining simple, natural harmonisation and texture at the outset and a brilliant vitality and vigour in the final section. Bobrowicz was known to his contemporaries as the Chopin of the guitar, and his Variations on Bellinis I Capuleti e i Montecchi display a romantic nostalgia and a regal finale. Mertz explores all sound colours of the guitar in the beautiful Marino Faliero after Donizetti, and the collection ends with the Variations on an air from Bellinis I Capuleti e i Montecchi by Regondi: a work full of innovative modulations and rich texture which transcended the boundaries of 19th-century guitar composition. Other information: - Recorded in 2012, Krakow. - In the 19th century the classical guitar gained its independence and emancipation as a serious solo instrument. To show the instruments possibilities and to entertain the general public guitarists often composed and played Fantasias on popular opera arias. - Contains notes on the works by the artist. - Contains first recordings (Nepomuk de Brobowiczs Variations and Polonaise on a duet from I Capulati e I Montecchi Op.30; Mertzs Marino Faliero from Opern-Revue Op.8).

Muzyka „Fantasias on Operas” - oprawa CD - Wytwórnia: Brilliant Classics.