A superb compliation of Northumbrian Pipes music
09/23/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I really think that this is one of the best compilations and introductions to the Northumbrian Smallpipes that I've heard in a long time. It covers a good many of the great players of the past ( Billy Pigg, Jack Armstrong, Joe Hutton ) and the current leading exponents like Anthony Robb ( a brilliantly played "Dargai"), Colin Ross, Pauline Cato and Kathryn Tickell. ( Particularly good to hear the seriously under-recorded Chris Ormston on there)Inevitably afficionados will notice omissions from both groups but a CD is only so long and Burt Feintuch and his colleagues have done a fine job in cramming as much excellent music onto the disk as they have. Well done!"
Required listening
Emmett Miller | Burton, WA | 10/27/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The first reviewer is absolutely correct in everything he says. This CD is required listening. It is encouraging to see this CD and several others of equal importance being issued at this time. Is there increased interest in this music, or is it just finally getting the attention it deserves? I first became interested in Northumbrian pipe music in the late 70s, and the only recording I could find was in the University music library. It was Billy Pigg's classic, most of which is included on this CD. The other two CD's that are required listening are NORTHUMBRIAN SMALLPIPES (Topic) and SPIRIT OF THE BORDER (Nimbus). The first is a compilation of important older recordings. The second is a modern recording made by the excellent Nimbus label, which has brought us other great CDs of contemporary traditional music from the British Isles. SPIRIT OF THE BORDER also features Chris Ormston. Perhaps Chris will finally get the chance to make his own CD."