“Remembranza” – Remembrance of Latin Sounds – Rosa Antonelli, piano – Albany

by | Sep 15, 2013 | Classical CD Reviews

“Remembranza” – Remembrance of Latin Sounds – Rosa Antonelli, piano – Albany TROY1388, 76:00 *****:

This collection of works by Astor Piazzolla, Heitor Villa-Lobos, Ernesto Nazareth, Enrique Granados and Issac Albéniz is best described as slow moving, even sleepy, yet expertly recreated by Argentinian pianist Rosa Antonelli.

She has performed extensively in Latin America, Europe and the U.S. (specifically Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall). She has made several CDs and has held seminars and lectures. Her poetic approach has won praise from various critics.

Argentinian composer Piazzolla’s La Ultima Greia describes the sadness of a woman who works in a cabaret. His El Mundo de los Dos is a hymn of love and is a tango lento. The lovely Adiós Nonino was written by Piazzolla on the death of his father. In Imperial, Piazzolla expresses the majestic Palace at Versailles. As you can see, these are not your customary tangos.

Brazilian composer Villa Lobos’ contribution to this survey of Latin sounds includes: Poema Singelo and Valse Da Dor (a lyrical, but melancholic waltz).  Brazilian Nazareth’s Odeón – Tango Brasilero reflects the milieu of theaters, hotels and cinemas he performed in when he was young.

Granados and Albéniz were Spanish composers. Granados’ great work was Goyescas, a spectacular piano solo composition made up of many shorter pieces. Quejas ó La Maja y el Ruisenor is taken from Goyescas and is one of the more popular sections. Granados’ Allegro de Concierto has color and is brilliant. It is a finger-busting virtuoso piece.

Albeniz’s Suite Espanola contains two items played here: Granada (Serenata) with its nostalgic expression influenced by flamenco style; and Cadiz, inspired by a religious song. Following the neo-romantic fashion, L’Automne Waltz (not part of the suite) is languid and low-spirited.

There you have it. Spanish and Latin remembrances somewhat forlorn and at times elegiac.  The recorded sound is excellent, as are most Albany Records releases. If you are deep into this type of music, then you have a perfect choice.

—Zan Furtwangler

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