Search - Alexander / Babadjanian, Arno Arutiunian, Alexandra Nikolayevna Pakhmutova, Mieczyslaw Weinberg :: Soviet Trumpet Concertos

The Best of the Best

Carl Brown | Decatur, AL USA | 12/14/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Bibi Black continues her virtuoso tradition with this album. Her lifting melodies soar throughout each selection. Her technical expertise and skill amaze even the most seasoned listener. This album is a nice addition to any classical collection and a "must-have" for anyone who loves trumpet."

Good, but Untame

J. Garcia | New Mexico, USA | 07/06/2005

(3 out of 5 stars)

"There is no question that Bibi Black is an energetic voice in the modern trumpet scene, but the question remains in her exaggerated style.



The Arutiunian concerto is energetic in the technical sections and soulful in the lyrical, but Black's gratuitously present and wide vibrato interrupts many of the phrases. The muted section is consequently devoid of shape and leaves the listener surprised at the entrance of the clarinet. The soloist often blends in with the orchestra rather than soaring over it (especially in the introduction). Most of the technical sections are well above the marked tempos and consequently sound hurried and frenetic. The cadenza is strong and full of appropriate bravura. The Theme and Variations (not Arutiunian's best) and Pakhmutova are similarly hit-or-miss.



The Vainberg is reason enough to purchase this album. Another obscure piece famously recorded by Nakariakov, the alternately silly and brooding rhapsody reveals Black's best points: technique, range, and dynamic contrast. Black effortlessly (and often hilariously) interprets the myriad of quotes in the final movement (such as the vague opening to either Wagner's Wedding March or Mahler's Funeral March).



Overall, Orbellian leads a sufficient, but imperfect Moscow Chamber Orchestra. The strings and woodwinds are solid, though the high brass disappoint in important sections of the Arutiunian.



All in all, buy this recording for the selections, especially the Vainberg. The Arutiunian concerto is one of the better ones out there, but Black's overwrought style still leaves much to be desired."