Search - Saverio Mercadante, Claudio Scimone, James Galway :: Flute Concerti

Magnificent relief for demanding people

Wellington Briques (wellington@bigf | Brazil and US | 12/06/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The 3 concertos recorded here come from a group of 6, written about 1818 or 1819. They were first played in the Naples conservatory with the composer as solist. The flute writing is beautifully adapted to the instrument and is thrown into high relief by the mainly string accompaniment. The overall clarity and fluent melodic line pin these charming works firmly to the Italy of the early 19th century. A must for any demand listener."

Guide for Students wishing to perform Mercadante

MelissaBarrow | Philadelphia, PA USA | 04/11/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you find yourself as a flutist needing an example of how one should perform Mercadante Concertos, look to Sir James Galway.I played the 3rd mov't of the Concerto in e minor: Rondo Russo for a recital in college. After listening to Galway's incredible clarity and interpretation, I found myself wanting to follow his performance. He's simply my favorite and hearing the cd gave me a wonderful example when preparing for my own solo performance. Since then I tell everyone that needs or wants to play that concerto to grab the cd."

Sheer pleasure and delight to listen.

doer | Fairfield, Ca. United States | 01/05/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mercadante may not have been as famous and well-known as some of his contemporaries (Hummel, Beethoven, Mozart, Rossini, Verdi, Donizetti, etc.), but his music was (and still is) every bit as entertaining, lighthearted and melodic as their's. Indeed, much of his musical style and structure can be seen in the works of the likes as Rossini, Donizetti and Verdi, both in their compositional and orchestral adaptations. As a matter of fact, it was on one such visit to Naples that Rossini went to hear one of the young composer's work and remarked to the director of the Conservatory, "... your young pupil, Mercadante, begins where we finish."Listening to his music, be them for violin, flute, clarinet (etc.), you will be happily taken by some of its echos from the likes as Mozart and Hummel, and every bit as rambunctious as the energized Beethoven. They are lively and very pleasant to listen to. Even his Largo is gently soothing; not dragging. You will not be bored!! If you were not a fan of his before, after listening to these flute concertos, you will become one. They are simply beautiful and captivating. Enjoy!!Last, but not least, the superlative interpretation of Maestro Galway's ability to transport and embellish every musical note (of this composer's flute concertos), makes one wonder at times whether Galway himself might not have been a student of the composer himself, to know the exactness with which to deliver each note.Simply brillant!! The work of two accomplished masters!!"