Reviews

Carmichael writes in an accessible post-Romantic style. The tonal structure of his music is easy to follow — but never cliche. What I found most appealing about Carmichael’s music was its honesty. Carmichael is straightforward in his intent. And the clarity of that intention makes his music appealing.

This is the kind of release that excites me…Because it’s a document we’re privileged to have…artists can learn from Muresanu’s informed performances. These works push the limits of the instrument, and a little beyond. And yet they have a lyrical quality to them. These are indeed definitive performances. And ones not to be missed.

The playing of both performers [Andrew West, Ronald Woodley] is beyond reproach. Given a crystal-clear recording, this excellent Métier disc makes the perfect case for some striking, challenging and ultimately rewarding music.

Do you have to warn against music about which a violinist declares: “She has discovered tones and sounds, that they think don’t exist on the violin?” The danger of shock is obvious with contemporary music – but not when it is by Violeta Dinescu. For all the complexity of her music, Dinescu doesn’t technically falter.

A highly impressive recording project has been realized by Gilbert Rowland and his team. Rowland performs the suites with great attention to detail, and…very tasteful and artistically…

Trevor Alexander has a pleasant, light, tenorish baritone and he has excellent diction…one appreciates that it was obviously a labour of love for the two artists involved…there are some interesting discoveries (and re-discoveries) here.

The large woodwind ensemble is a rare beast in Europe (there are more in the United States); the members of the Czech Philharmonic Wind Ensemble are wonderful advocates of this music with their dexterous and bravura playing. All of the works are receiving their world première recordings. This colourful collection is warmly recommended.

…a delightful selection of contemporary works…the clarity of articulation and precision of the players is in evidence…As an exceptional demonstration of the often neglected range that wind music can deliver, and with such commandingly expert performances from [Shea] Lolin and the Czech Philharmonic Wind Ensemble, this has to be highly recommended.

This is a generous recital of 21 songs composed by English composers…Trevor Alexander’s voice is one I can listen to without hesitation, and with much pleasure, and he is aided and abetted by the very sensitive Peter Crockford.

Micheli bears a torch for the Liszt tradition…a tour de force…a potent demonstration of keyboard proficiency.

[Schliessmann] has reached the pinnacle sought and coveted by all players, which is to surmount all technical obstacles to the point where conscious awareness of them ceases to exist and all that is left is to dwell in the higher realm of pure music-making. Burkard Schliessmann is in that class of musicians. His latest album is most assuredly a must-have for pianists and lovers of solo piano music, but also, I’d say for the general music lover as an example of what musicianship at its finest is all about.

[Jonathan] Phillips’ beautiful interpretation…handles Chopin…so expertly…Phillips’ sensitive artistry brings out the best in all…

an engaging collection of attractive new works – all receiving first recordings – in splendidly mellifluous performances by the Czech Philharmonic Wind Ensemble conducted by Shea Lolin…Lolin and the players…show off their virtuosity, flawless intonation and ensemble. Recommended.

There is, therefore, a spiritual and an environmental aspect to this music…considerable beauty in the interaction of the soloists. The recording is ideal. I found the performances illuminating and…inspiring.

Alexander and Crockford’s selection of songs is eclectic…I’ve been listening to this disc with a tear in my eye, and that’s a good thing.

This selection of English songs is [Trevor Alexander’s] debut recording as a soloist, and is worth the wait. Alexander has a silky, tenor-like upper register…impressive control of dynamics. Peter Crockford provides empathetic accompaniments consistently enhancing mood and atmosphere.

The performances are well wrought. Both performers are clearly enamoured of their chosen repertoire.

David Appleton gives a superb interpretation…and performed…with brilliant drama. Coulthard again plays with drama and excitement…This new album is…a fascinating cross-section of the entirety of Buckley’s writing for piano and especially flute….on display is the remarkable consistency of Buckley’s voice down the years. It is a speaking musical voice, unshowy but meaningful.

Hughes also states he takes these pieces as seriously as any other; one presumes there is something of a challenge involved here that Hughes relishes. There is real care lavished on these often highly appealing morsels…this is a stunning album and a fine introduction to the music of Bernard Hughes. More, please.

We are immediately drawn to the performers’ high level of technical proficiency…the resulting musical sounds are riveting…In all this is an extraordinary debut recording by a highly creative performer. Highly recommended.