Customer Reviews

Together/Julian Bream & John Williams

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

 

 

Two of the classical guitar's brightest masters together for traditional as well as transcribed works from a number of different composers. Either of the guitarists at their peak (this was recorded in '71 and '78) would have been good enough to amaze you if you are a follower of the guitar and its traditional music, both of them together is something that must be heard. The recording is excellent (ADD - remastered, I believe, in '93) and the selection of music plays to their strengths as individual musicians. To hear these two rivals play together at the same time is enlightening. Essential.

Both Julian Bream and John Williams have been two of my favorites when it comes to classical guitar. Having them together on the same album, playing some of my favorite music is more than a treat; it is pure joy.

What I love is the fact that even though both are masters in their own rights, they were able to blend together their individual styles into an ensemble to create a set of moods which enhances the musical experience. All are wonderful, but they saved the best for last, the hauntingly beautiful Spanish Dance No. 2 of Granados. This is music that will have you stopping what you are doing just to listen to it. (If you are listening to this in the car, pull over please!) Although I have heard this piece before done by other greats, in the hands of Bream and Williams, it has been raised to heavenly heights, leaving the listener in a state between tears and great joy.

In summary, if you wish to own just one guitar album in your collection, this would be the one. My greatest regret is that I never had the pleasure of hearing either of them live on stage. The next best thing is this album.

Classical guitar music seems to be an acquired or old-fashioned taste these days. Thanks to a friend, Phil Rosheger, a Segovia master student and composer, I heard this album and heard just how extra-ordinary it is. Two master classical players knocking back some great music I had never heard before. This album is a revelation of many facets of music that were unknown to me before. Music is the pathway to a higher plane. This album is a great example, a great gift.

Whoever would like to study or interest in classical guitar must listen to this record. They are the greatest masters.

ALGIN EROZAN

This is a great album! It also has a sequel, called "Together Again." I recommend them both. Beautiful composers interpreted by the very best guitarists.

I have heard this CD before, and ordered it from Amazon.com last Wednesday, Overnight shipping. This is Monday night, and it hasn't even shipped yet. Great CD, but go somewhere to buy it if you want it this century!