Search - Quartetto Gelato :: Aria Fresca

Virtuosity and Warmth from Toronto's Rich Delicious Quartet

02/05/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you love tenor or violin or cello or accordion or oboe--if you have Yo-yo Ma's Tango album or think Vanessa Mae might be on to something or know of Cirque de Soleil's Allegria, this is a must-have CD. The sound of this quartet, even without the orchestra behind it, is WAY bigger than you think possible from four instruments (yes, the tenor plays the violin--but only one at a time, and the cellist plays the guitar, too, but in turn). This group takes its time weaving a tale for you--with one instrument blending seamlessly into the next--oboe to accordion to cello to violin--then duets--the oboe and accordion, accordion and violin--its breathtaking technique. Maybe its the background of the artists in film sound track and ballet orchestra coming through, or the clearly distinguishable instruments, but these original arrangements seem far more voice-articulate than the usual quartet. The Rosenklavier is hauntingly moving with the accordion coming in from a distance...with just the right soulfulness. The Turandot is also fabulous, with tremendous build up. This group absolutely raises the standard for on-the-edge classical chamber music. A must for young classical musicians, music students, and music lovers."

A beautiful, musically brilliant recording.

12/28/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Arias Fresca is a beautiful, musically brilliant recording that marries opera and chamber music without compromising either form. Quartetto Gelato is certainly one of the most unique chamber groups performing today, combining for instance an English horn and an accordion as if they had always been musical partners. Each of the artists is first rate, but special note must be paid to Peter De Sotto, who displays equal ablomb and talent on the violin and as tenor soloist in several arias. His is a truly lovely lyric voice. This recording is one to tell your friends about."

Wonderful

12/22/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you always wished you could like opera, or if you have a friend for whom you think a gentle introduction would be in order, this is the album to get. The "Ice Cream" Quartet is just delightful (and their liner notes are funny). This is intimate opera, like you get at a small Italian restaurant in South Philly where the cooks and waiters serenade the customers--except with concert hall quality."