Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre

Joaquin Rodrigo (Composer), Neville Marriner (Conductor), Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields (Orchestra), Christine Pendrell (Performer), Pepe Romero (Performer), Augustin Leon Ara (Performer), Augustín Leon Ara (Performer) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Performer: Christine Pendrell, Pepe Romero, Augustin Leon Ara, Augustín Leon Ara
• Orchestra: Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields
• Conductor: Neville Marriner
• Composer: Joaquin Rodrigo
• Audio CD (May 10, 1994)
• SPARS Code: DDD
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Philips
• ASIN: B00000415P
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (28 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #6,184 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)
  • #6 in Music > Classical > Instruments > Strings > Guitar
  • #28 in Music > Classical > Instruments > Strings > Violin
  • #63 in Music > Classical > Forms & Genres > Concertos > General

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

52 of 54 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Elegant Spanish ambience, November 23, 2001

By 

Enrique Torres "Rico" (San Diegotitlan, Califas) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre (Audio CD)

It would be hard to find more beautiful music or better interpretations of Rodrigo's music than what is on this disc. Besides the "Concierto de Aranjuez" and "Fantasia para un gentilhombre," probably the most recognizeable Rodrigo songs, this disc features many more equally compelling Rodrigo numbers. Recorded in 1992 at Watford Town Hall in London ,the musicianship featured by Pepe Romero is stupendous and equal to other versions I own of Rodrigo's music. If you love Spanish guitar you will love this music that creates images of court life in old world Spain. His technical skill on classical Spanish guitar is only matched by his sensitivity to the gentle nuances of the music. His virtuosity is masterful and blends wonderfully with the SMTF, creating a heavenly marriage of sound. Sir Neville Mariner does a masterful job conducting the various horns and violins to soothe the soul. This is music to lift the spirit when it is a little down. When the whole world seems upside down and insane the beauty of Rodrio's music can create feelings of hope amidst the chaos. In a post 9/11 world it was the music of Rodrigo that helped me get back into music and on with life. Although the accompanying booklet is a treat, written in four languages and includes nice photographs of the participating artists, including Rodrigo, it is the music that makes this disc a valuable addition to one's collection. Technically the music is way beyond my understanding, although the booklet helps, I only know that I appreciate the sound and love it. I would dare say, if you buy it, you'll love it too. This is music that those not versed in any classical training or do not listen to regularly can appreciate for it's sheer beauty. You don't have to be a classical purist to enjoy this disc, so don't be shy, add this to your collection.

22 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars As good as it gets, April 26, 2000

By 

J. Buxton "cantabile" (Waltham, MA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre (Audio CD)

An extraordinary recording and really a triumph for both Romero and ASMF/Marriner. Beautiful recorded sound and just the right amount of cultural flair and virtuosity make this a winning disc in every way. Romero was a friend of Rodrigo and there is every indication that this is a definitive performance. I saw Romero perform this work several years ago in Colorado and seeing him live was breathtaking. This recording effectively brings that concert back to life for me. The other works on the disc are equally fine.

20 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A breathtaking performance!, November 29, 1999

By 

"drfizz" (Florida, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre (Audio CD)

This is without question the definitive recording of the Concierto de Aranjuez. Every classical CD collection should contain this album. Pepe Romero has performed the perfect marriage between technical virtuosity and emotional interpretation. As well, the SMTF Orchestra matches Romero note-for-note making for a truly magical listening experience.