Search - Frank Erza Levy, Ernst Levy, George Maull :: Cello Concertos

Unusual and Beautiful Music

Robert Lenz | New York City | 12/08/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I'm so happy to see this CD finally released. I was lucky enough to be at the world premieres of these works here in New York City last spring at Avery Fisher Hall with these same artists. One of the most impressive events I've seen in over 30 years of concert going. The cellist, Scott Ballantyne, posseses a rich full sound that completely filled the hall and a flawless technique. And he played both of these difficult modern works in one night, FROM MEMORY. It was an amazing feat. The last time I saw anything comparable was many years ago when Rostropovich played a similar concert at Carnegie Hall.The music itself is stunning. My favorite of the two is the son's, Frank Levy. Don't be frightened by the fact these are 20th century compositions. It is modern work, but melodic and lyrical -- the slow moement is glorious, the outer movements are colorful and rthymically exciting. A far cry from the squeaks, pops and monotony of so much contemporary music. The father's work seemed to me to be more intellectual in contrast to the son's more heartfelt music. But as I listen to it I have come to enjoy it almost as much. The slow movement in particular is very moving and deep."