Customer Reviews

Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre

5 star:		(22)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

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.

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.

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.

Although already possessing a copy of the Concierto de Aranjuez on CD, I ordered this version after a documentary on the life of Rodrigo was shown on Channel 4 some time ago. Included in the programme was the finest performance of the Adagio movement that I have ever heard - far more emotionally involving than any other performance, either live or on disc. It was performed by Romero/Marriner/ASMITF, and I was hoping that this would be the version on the CD. However, while the CD contained a nice interpretation of the music, it did not quite match the TV performance for sheer beauty and emotion, which was outstanding in every way. Therefore, while I feel that this CD edition is very good, it still falls short of my (high) expectations.
The other tracks make a nice compliment to the CD, and again seem to be of a high standard.
So, while this is by any standards a superb performance, I will always be comparing it to the other performance in a slightly unfavourable light, and will continue to search for that edition.

The Concierto de Aranjuez is undoubtedly the loveliest guitar concerto ever written, and Pepe Romero (perfectly paired here with the ASMIF) plays it with impeccable skill and delicacy. The first and third movements are playful and spirited, but the real essence of the concerto lies in its achingly beautiful second movement. I guarantee that you will be hard pressed to find a more rapturous piece of music. Also, the rest of the disc is filled with other, equally delightful works by Rodrigo, most notably the Fantasia. If you are a fan of classical guitar, or simply appreciate beauty in its purest form, buy this disc!

Pepe Romero has perfected Aranjuez. I have yet to hear a better recording of this Concierto.

What a recording. For years I liked both the efforts of Williams/Ormandy (live performance) and Parkening with the RPO. But this is my favorite recording now, hands down. The sonics are top-notch as compared with those two ADD selections, and there is more less well-known Rodrigo that is equally lovely. Romero's interpretations just seem more passionate, which seems necessary for these works, in particular the slow movement of the Concierto de Aranjuez.
Recommended.

The music of Rodrigo is beautiful. The emotional impact the music has on me doesn't fade even though I listen again and again. If you can get emotional about music, this will move you to tears. Exquisite and uplifting.

I was mainly curious to hear how Romero's performance of the Aranjuez Adagio stacked up to John Williams' performance from the "The Seville Concert." While Romero's playing is fine, I still prefer the Williams performance (with the Seville Orchestra). I also prefer Paco de Lucia's performance of the Allegro movements, which he plays with brightness and a faster tempo. On the other hand, I do very much like Romero's performance of "Fantasia para un Gentilhombre." The final flamenco-based track is very nice also.

This is a very rare recording...a "perfect" cd...where the composition and the performance marry seamlessly. The combination of Rodrigro and Romero is incredible.