Customer Reviews

Boccherini: Fandango, Sinfonie & La Musica Notturna di Madrid

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I bought this disc on sight knowing that performances by Jordi Savall are superlative; I was not disappointed. Luigi Boccherini chose to live in Spain, in the area of Madrid following in the footsteps of Domenico Scarlatti. The period of the compositions recorded here come from 1780 to 1790 which was a turbulent time for Luigi Boccherini with the death of his wife (which left him alone with six small children) and the death of his patron in 1785, a place that was soon filled by Charles III. In 1787, the composer married again

The Quintet for Guitar that starts the disc includes Boccherini's famous Fandango as a third movement with a charming Pastorale and Allegro maestro making up the first two movements. The Symphony op. 37, in four movements, was composed shortly after Boccherini's second marriage and is in the key of D minor giving the music a stormy aspect. The symphony is much like those of Haydn but has an Italian perspective. The Symphony in A major (1782) is in three movements, lacking a minute, and is skillfully composed, reminding me of the Neapolitan symphonies of Alessandro Scarlatti etc. The Quintet (Night Music of the Streets of Madrid) from 1780 is an unusual composition recalling the gaiety and bustle of the capital of Spain. The quintet begins with the strings mimicking the sound of church bells followed by a series of dances until a local garrison sounds Retreat, marking the midnight curfew. Anyone who has seen the film Master and Commander will recognize the Passa calle movement from the film; it is beautifully played here, filled out by the full complement of strings.

The CD comes with a richly illustrated booklet that is very informative about Boccherini and the period in which he lived. The music is beautifully played and recorded by Alla Vox. This CD is a must for fans of Jordi Savall and Italian music.

And this is almost the best prove of it. Since he created his own record label, Alia Vox, he's been working hard, productive and making wonderful CDs with gorgeous booklets inside. Sadly I haven't seen him performing yet, which is one one my greatest desires for the moment.
Anyway, what matters here is that Savall gave us the most beatiful reading that I've ever heard of Boccherini's work, specially of La Musica Notturna di Madrid. Though the life of the composer was a bit storming along the years he created this music, almost the whole collection is joyful music that one can share with non-classical likers and, probably, one of the best ways to introduce children to Classic European Music.
The one and big tag is ENJOY IT!

Boccherini: Fandango, Sinfonie & La Musica Notturna di Madrid~ Claude Wassmer is an astounding recording under the direction of the amazing conductor Jordi Savall. The book-let is a true work of art and no expenses has been spared. The art work on the cover is truly splendid. The liners notes written by Jaume Tortella and Andres Ruiz de Tarazona are well-written and quite informative. This is a recording definitely not to be missed and Boccherini is truly a talented and amazing composer in his own right. 5 well deserved stars indeed.

Over the past 30 years I have developed a passionate love affair with Boccherini's compositions. Of all the performances I have collected this is the best I have ever experienced. In addition to showcasing Boccherini's subtle and sublime artistry it showcases the Spanish flavor of one of his most pivotal periods of composition. Although this import is pricey it is a must for everyone who craves a little more picante in their Baroque buffet.

I listen to this CD often and love it!! It's uplifting and refreshing. I highly recommend this CD for your collection of classical music and I plan on getting some more of Boccherini's works.

I hadn't heard of this composer before Master and Commander and I am grateful for the introduction. This is a beautiful cd of wonderful music to enjoy.

I have other recordings of this music, and this one tops them all. The Fandango is totally mesmerising................it rocks unlike any classical music I have ever heard. Great recording ..... the sound is top drawer. A sonic masterpiece........highest recommendation.

My CD was delivered already after one week and that over a distance of more than 10000 kms(California to the Netherlands). No problem with delivery, nor with the paying.