Search - Bohuslav Martinu, Otar Taktakishvili, Lowell Liebermann Bela Bartok, Bela Bartok, Bohuslav Martinu, Otar Taktakishvili Lowell Lieberman, Philip Amalong Jeannine Dennis :: Music for Flute and Piano

From the first haunting moments of the first selection I knew that this was going to be an album that would hold my attention and speak with quiet intensity. I was unfamiliar with the work, composer and players, but even without any foreknowledge the quiet intensity grabbed and held me, demanding attention and rewarding the experience with a gripping musicality. The album begins with Lowell Liebermann?s Sonata for Flute and Piano, a brilliant work in two parts. The next fourteen tracks are selections from Bela Bartók?s "Suite Paysanne Hongroise", which was a result of his study of Hungarian folk music. I readily admit my love for Bartók?s music, but that can cause me to be very critical of poor renditions of his work. Here the five folk songs and nine dances presented are tastefully and credibly executed. Lieberman is again explored with his "Soliloquy" for solo flute. Jeannine Dennis explores this poignant piece in appropriate solitude. It is exquisitely lyrical, and after repeated listening ranks at the very top of my personal list for solo flute. I admit to not having heard it performed extensively, but even so it would be hard to believe that it could be better executed. Next is Otar Taktakishvili?s Sonata for Flute and Piano. The Russian work is in three contrasting movements, and is certainly a wonderful discovery. I was again unfamiliar with both the composer and the work, but the performance here presented has made me want to find more of his work; surely one of the greatest compliments. Martinù?s First Sonata for Flute and Piano is fabulously executed, again with the syncopated, serpentine melodies presented with clear, open lyricism. I cannot speak highly enough of the performance. The two musicians are perfectly synchronized and present the composer in the best light humanly possible.