Awake O Harp
Fine playing and an intriguing programme, which sees two popular works by Handel with some little-known but quite remarkable works for solo harp, including the Santa Fe Suite by major Welsh composer William Mathias, whose Celtic Dances and String Quartets are also on Diversions – the only recordings of these pieces. On three tracks Rachel is joined by organist Ronald Frost at the organ of St. Ann’s, Manchester.
A Dunelm Series recording.
Track Listing
- George Frederic Handel:
- I. Harp Concerto in B flat major, op. 4 no. 6 - Andante - Allegro (3:23)
- II. Harp Concerto in B flat major, op. 4 no. 6 - Larghetto (4:32)
- III. Harp Concerto in B flat major, op. 4 no. 6 - Allegro moderato (2:51) Marcel Tournier:
- Etude de Concert - Au Matin (4:17) John Thomas:
- The Minstrel's Adieu to his Native Land (9:01)
- Bugeilio'r Gwenith Gwyn (3:46) Marcel Grandjany:
- Aria in Classic Style (5:54) David Watkins:
- Fire Dance (2:24) William Croft:
- Saraband and Ground (4:31) Roger Nichols:
- Impromptu (4:02) George Frederic Handel:
- Chaconne in C major (6:12) Oreste Ravanello:
- Prelude-Berceuse (6:35) William Mathias:
- I. Santa Fe Suite - Landscape (2:49)
- II. Santa Fe Suite - Nocturne (5:23)
- III. Santa Fe Suite - Sun Dance (3:34)
Reviews
“This CD is simply brilliant! Rachel Dent is an absolutely outstanding harpist, her selected programme seeming to display all possible aspects of her sensitive musicianship and harp technique to full advantage. A revelation of harp playing! Very highly recommended.
” —Ian Milnes
“Most of the music is light and colourful, performances are accomplished and the recording, originally by Dunelm Records in 2004, very natural. Warmly recommended.
” —Philip Scowcroft
“What an unexpectedly versatile instrument the harp is! The variety of music here is a tribute to both the instrument and the skill of the player. The recording of the harp solo is admirable….a winningly offbeat collection of pieces, very well played.
” —John Sheppard
“A tasty, classy recording that provides a great break from the noise of the world around us. Simply delightful
” —Chris Spector
“This is a pleasing programme from a young harpist who is making a name for herself as soloist and freelance player.
” —Jonathan Woolf
“An enjoyable recital… many will be attracted by the ‘Santa Fe’ Suite of William Mathias.
” —Peter Spaull
“An intriguing way to feature solo music for harp, alongside joint contributions from both harp and organ. The solo harp music is certainly worth hearing.
” —Roger Firman
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