Search - Carlos Salzedo, Marcel Tournier, Gabriel Pierne :: Legende: French Music for Harp

Legende: not just another French harp collection

11/23/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"French composers have contributed some of the most rewarding repertoire for the harp, so it is not unusual for harp soloists to release CD's with music by Faure, Debussy, Ravel, Tournier, Salzedo, etc. What makes harpist Anna-Maria Ravnopolska's disc different and exciting is that she selected a varied program that also includes lesser known French pieces such as the Taillefaire Sonata and the Maurice Franck Suite (in its world premiere recording) that prove to be just as lovely in their own ways. Ravnopolska's playing is of the warm, resonant variety that exudes great empathy for this music and for the instrument itself, which other harpists often make sound like a dry percussive device. For pure beauty of sound and a moving musical experience, Legende, the CD's romantic title track by Henriette Renie, is a must-hear in Ravnopolska's compelling performance."