On Music of Giuliani , David
Russell, one of the great guitarists of the late
20th century, plays a selection of solo works by
one of the great guitarists of the early 19th century.
Mauro Giuliani (1781-1829) was deeply involved in
many aspects of music throughout his life. He played
cello in the premiere of Beethoven's Seventh Symphony,
gave lessons to Napoleon's wife, and popularized
a method of guitar notation that is still used today.
But he is remembered today for his compositions
for guitar.
Russell plays
five of Giuliani's solo pieces with his usual blend
of intelligence and musicality. He never lets his
formidable technique overpower the music. On Rossiniana
No.1, part of a fantasy based on arias from Rossini's
operas, Russell plays with a lyricism that is deeply
emotional without being histrionic. Russell has
a rare gift: he is able to make a guitar sing.
Michael Simmons
There is very
little classical music specifically written for
guitar, its repertoire consisting mostly of arrangements.
However, Mauro Giuliani, known as the "Paganini
of the Guitar," left a beautiful body of work for
this neglected instrument. Written at the start
of the 19th Century, they blend Italian style with
Austrian keyboard technique.
This fascinating fusion stems from the Italian composer's
move to Vienna early in his career. Whereas Italy
was lacking in opportunity, Austrians admired Giuliani's
new sound. His Sonata in C, with its overtly piano-styled
texture, won acclaim throughout the music community.
Ingenious in the depth of its structure, it set
Giuliani's career on fire. His most popular piece,
the Grande Ouverture in A, shares similar patterns.
This recording highlights the
joy and festive nature of Giuliani's work. Yet even
as its emotions peak, one cannot help but marvel
at the refined structure. Guitarist David Russell's
technique is exceptionally smooth, benefiting from
Giuliani's understanding of the instrument's limits.
Russell's authoritative touch is firm, yet delicate.
It is a world class recording of exceptional compositions.
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