Fantasie villageoise, Introduction et Theme Varie Op. 20 – David
Starobin, guitar – Bridge Records 9166, 52:47 ****:
Versatile
classical guitarist Starobin, who is CEO of Bridge Records, presents
here for us some of the finest compositions from the composer and
performer who held a similar place in promoting the guitar as a serious
classical instrument as did Andres Segovia later. Starobin plays a 1923
Herman Hauser guitar which is modeled after an early 19th century
Viennese instrument. The two works singled out above are the longest of
the 14 – most are two or three minutes length. The Fantasie Villageoise
employs what is probably the first use of multiphonics on any
instrument. Sor was a real pioneer on his instrument, and his studies
and exercises have been the technical and musical starting point for
all classical guitarists. His “Studies” are nevertheless lovely pieces
just for listening. Berlioz’ works gained attention at the same time as
Sor was composing, which could explain Sor’s attention to instrumental
color, programatic content, and bell sounds in his Fantasie
villageoise. It depicts a whole day in the life of a typical village.
Fine guitar sound and superb playing from Starobin.
