Tír Na HiFi

Even less well known than Vieuxtemps is his contemporary Theodore Gouvy. Born in 1819 in what now is Saarbrucken, Germany, he belonged to a French family and acquired French citizenship when he was 30. Like Vieuxtemps´his music is melodious, ingenious and well written. Berlioz, often a nasty critic, was nice to him, and Brahms and Joseph Joachim had him in high esteem.
This 3 cd album introduce us to his chamber music, 2 quartets and a piano trio, some of his orchestral music, a Sinfonietta, some concert overtures and a violin fantasy and cantatas for solo voice. Everything is accomplished, not masterpieces if we compare him to Brahms, but that is not fair, as it wouldn´t be fair to compare Vieuxtemps with Brahms.
Dear Fergus, I think you would enjoy this album.

One of the true masterpieces of the 20th Century. Every time I listen to this stupendous recording I marvel all over again.

Nice way to begin the morning earlier today....



Hogwood seems to divide opinion but he's certainly one my favorite conductors in this repetoir. Would still give the edge to Goodman/Hanover for these particular symphonies.

Stunning album of modern liturgical music.
Martynov's compositions are melodic and fresh. The coupling of the choir with what I think is a Hardanger Fiddle gives the music an extraordinary edge.

BTW I'm listening via the Qobuz streaming service - CD quality and a big step up from Spotify.

Mark.

To balance all the baroque a bit, ..... Again.... ;-)

Very pleasant minimal music on a not so common instrument in very well performed transcription from piano to harp and an inspiration for the composer himself (so I understand).

Cheers

Aleg

Symphonies 3 & 6