Search - Alfredo Casella, Giuseppe Martucci, Ferruccio Busoni :: Ferruccio Busoni: Turandot Suite; Alfredo Casella: Paganiniana; Giuseppe Martucci: Three Pieces

A ferociously virtuostic and charmingly sensitive account.

07/19/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a most impressive recording. The performances here by the very polished Orchestra Filarmonica della Scala are ferociously virtuostic yet never lack the sensitivity which is such a funamental part of Italian music whether it be symphonic or operatic. Muti is in control of every note and every dynamic. The CD opens with Paganiniana by Alfredo Casella. It is a work based upon themes by Nicolo' Paganini. It is a most striking work of the highest orchestral calibre. The orchestra of La Scala certainly does justce to this work. The intonation is impeccable and the presicion undeniable. The CD also features three short works by Giuseppe Martucci;Notturno, Novaletta and Giga. A tremendous amount of sensitivity is present here. although at times the works lack character they still are an impotant testament to the Italian symphonic trdition which is at times overlooked. The CD concludes with the Turandot Suite by Ferruccio Busoni which seems to be highly influenced greatly by the Austro-Germanic school of symphonic writing. The orchestra's brass section is in fine form. Delicate passages between the winds and strings come off beautifully. Muti has sure elevated this group of musicians to a world class standard and with such quality recordings such a reputation will only magnify itself."

I concur

04/19/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Most tend to think of Italian music as being strictly opera, but this album clearly reveals that instrumental Italian music is under appreciated. LaScala seems to be getting back to its golden days that it enjoyed many years ago. Highly entertaining and recommended"