Search - Bonfiglio :: Live at the Grand Canyon

HARMONICA FOR ADULTS!

Tony Sheppard | Florida | 11/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One thing that sets harmonica apart from many other instruments is the intimate, personal and expressive nature of its sound. No one has proven this more magnificently than Robert Bonfiglio, America's pre-eminent classical harmonicist. In his hands, the chromatic harmonica assumes its rightful position in the family of great solo instruments.This is an album, as the title indicates, recorded before a live audience, and all the spontaneity and electricity of live performance is present here. People who have never thought of harmonica in a serious context will be amazed by the range of expression, the enormous palette of tonal color that is on this CD! In this regard, the album is sure to be an eye-opener for many.Bonfiglio is, of course, a master musician. He has championed the cause of solo harmonica as an instrument worthy of attention for years, performing works originally written for other instruments, but more particularly the growing repertoire written expressly for the harmonica with orchestra.In this collection, there are lighter pieces as well. You will go a long way to find a more interesting rendition of "Whiter Shade of Pale," for example. Hear his wonderful "Nuages" or the popular Brazilian composition "Manha de Carnival." Bonfiglio's ability to bring the subtleties of emotion to light in his music are completely apparent here. His consummate technical skills are only matched by his ability to accurately create the musical atmosphere of each selection.There is an expanse of musical territory covered here that is as vast as its physical setting. One thing is certain: You will never view the harmonica in the same way again."Live at the Grand Canyon" is a must-have -- buy it today!"