Amazon.co.uk
Premiered in 1940, Joaquin Rodrigo's
Concierto de Aranjuez has survived innumerable arrangements and transcriptions for a variety of other instruments (including a version for flugelhorn and brass band--memorably heard on the
Brassed Off soundtrack) to become the single most famous and popular piece of music ever written for classical guitar. It's reputation, of course, is entirely justified, and any doubts that this passionate and emotionally charged music will pall as a result of over-exposure are dispelled utterly by Craig Ogden's warm-hearted advocacy. Ogden's technique is so highly developed that he presents Rodrigo's formidable demands on the soloist as natural and effortless musical outpourings. His organic reading is enhanced by sympathetic support from Fujioka and the BBC Philharmonic, making this
Aranjuez one of the very finest ever recorded. But if the
Aranjuez is the primary reason for acquiring this disc, the two other works here shouldn't be overlooked as a result. The
Fantasia para un gentilhombre (1958) is a suite of Gaspar Sanz's 17th-century extravagant Spanish dances presented in colourful arrangements for guitar and orchestra by Rodrigo. The fizzing energy of the
Concierto para una fiesta (1983) belies the fact that it was written when the composer was over 80. Its technical challenges hold no terrors for Ogden, who brings out all the exuberance and fiery spirit of this delightful music. For all lovers of the guitar, this is an album of inspirational music-making. --
Mark Walker
Product Description
Brand New Product! Dispatched within 1 business day. Please allow 4 to 14 business days for delivery after dispatch. Worldwide International Delivery. Established seller since 1999.