Search - Antonio Soler, Gilbert Rowland :: Padre Antonio Soler: Sonatas for Harpsichord, Vol. 8

Dashing, engaging and brilliant works.

John Austin | Kangaroo Ground, Australia | 08/13/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Listening to this eighth installment of Gilbert Rowland's complete survey of Soler's keyboard sonatas, I regretted that it was not possible to watch as well as listen to them being played. Seeing the various hand-crossings, some at a distance of four and a half octaves, as well as the transference of hands between the two manuals, would be as fascinating for the observer as it must be difficult for the player. Gilbert Rowland provides a 76 minute selection of sonatas here, including one that is in rondo form, and one that comprises four movements. He also provides extensive program notes. He plays a two manual Wooderson 1998 harpsichord replicating a Goermans 1750 original. It has a pleasing pungent sound. Its range, from tinkling treble to bouncy bass, is best displayed in the last track. Ideas, textures, and idiosyncrasies may not be as startling generally as are found in the sonatas of Soler's mentor Domenico Scarlatti, but there is nevertheless plenty of dashing, engaging and brilliant music here."