Search - Elmer Bernstein, Isaac Albeniz, Jack Marshall :: Christopher Parkening · Elmer Bernstein ~ Concerto for Guitar - E. Bernstein · Albeniz · Marshall

Long live tonality

DeMonford | richfield, mn USA | 12/30/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Cheers to Mr Bernstein and Mr Parkening! I purchased this CD because I have been a long time fan of Elmer Bernstein. (Man with Golden Arm and of course, The Ten Commandments) Upon my first listening I too was struck by the "motion picture quality" of the concerto. And at first, thought it a negative. But then I thought I was judging the work on my own point of reference. (motion pictures) well, a hundred years from now people will not be rating this music based on whether it is motion picture music or not. So, I began to listen to it as music, and became enthralled with the composition. Sure, it has it similarities to Aranjuez, and it does get rather bombastic at times, but all in all the concerto is a very solid musical effort. (just pay attention to the various meters in the first movement if you have any question as to whether or not Mr Bernstein knows what he is doing.......and, as far as Mr Parkening is concerned: the man is playing with more soul and maturity today than at any other time. In addition, the La Vega and Essay for guitar(also on the disc) are testimony to the brilliant arranging and writing talents of Jack Marshall. Thank you Mr Bernstein and Mr Parkening."

Classical Genius

Linda Hartley | Arizona, United States | 12/14/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Startled by the bravado of the opening notes I wondered if I had purchased the wrong CD to experience classical music. What had I heard that made me purchase this in the first place? I had never heard of Christopher Parkening or Elmer Bernstein and the London Symphony Orchestra but saw a tiny glimpse (on TV) of Christopher Parkening "fishing" and discussing his "time out" from music. Happy to hear of your decision to again share your gift with the world Christopher! I love most music but have always been unable to grasp the beauty of classical music. Each time I listen to "Concerto for Guitar" I am "hearing" new expressions that speak to me... but not to my heart or soul...a different feeling...this music speaks to my mind. Beautiful music .... This is beautiful to listen to and the combination of Parkening and Bernstein is delightful...pure genius!"

Great Music

scarlatti11 | Killeen, TX United States | 06/06/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As I was reading the reviews by
other, I was wondering if they
ever held a guitar in their arms?
Mr Parkening plays the guitar
wonderful, no wonder why he
is one of the greatest guitarists
of our times. I like this recording,
my favorite is the guitar concerto
by E.Bernstein. The E.Bernstein is
full of life and sunny melodies,
especially in the last movement.
Even the contemplative slow middle
movement of the concerto is radiant,
but at the same time contemplative.
The "Essay for Gutar", by Jack Marshall,
is a work of high stature, and like
E. Bernstein's concerto it is too
full of life.
Great recording, and outstanding works,
hurray for the new guitar concerto!!!"