Search - Rhonda Larson :: Free As a Bird

From Wind and Wire, Issue 11

Kathy Parsons | Florence, OR United States | 02/06/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The flute seems to really be coming into its own as a lead instrument, and Rhonda Larson's first solo album should rightly put her at the forefront of the movement. Formerly with the Paul Winter Consort, Larson was named as one of James Galway's favorite flutists. Defying categorization, Larson combines her classical roots with jazz, Celtic, ethnic, and sacred music. Eight of the eleven tracks were written or arranged by Paul Halley, who also accompanies Larson on piano, organ, and vocals; they obviously really understand each other musically. Larson also debuts her first two original compositions, "Lament" and "Movin' On" (presented without accompaniment) as well as her arrangement of Rachmaninoff's haunting "Vocalise". Larson plays a variety of flutes, including the Indian Bansuri flute, crystal flute, penny whistle, and alto flute, and the styles of playing vary widely from piece to piece. "Peregrine" (my favorite track) and "Ekkaleo" positively soar, while "Loner Song" and "Lament" are more somber and quiet. "Maskell's Harbor" combines the sweet melody from a traditional Irish hymn with a whimsical jig, and then the crystal flute slows it's frantic pace to softly describe the fog skimming over the surface of the water at the Harbor; other melodies flow in and out, and then the jig is revisited, ending on a sprightly note. "Rhuah Returns" is a tribute to a mountain wind in Israel - freedom and beauty flow through this piece of inspiration. "Movin' On" and "Bach in a Minute" clearly demonstrate Larson's virtuosity. "Adoro Te" and "Alleluias" are very spiritual and sacred in feel. Drawing from such a variety of musical styles and influences, Rhonda Larson brings a real richness to this CD that is often missing from the more "homogenized" recordings that stick to one mood or theme. This is one outstanding CD, and I highly recommend it."

Great Flute Variety

rodboomboom | Dearborn, Michigan United States | 02/16/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Larson shows her capability and capacity to play all types of music on different instruments exceptionally well.This spirited collection by Larson and collaborater pianist Halley provides entertaining new music on what is becoming quite a virtuoso instrument, the flute.Especially fond of "Bach In A Minute" and ""Maskell's Harbor.""

Absolute Flute!

rodboomboom | 10/03/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Rhonda Larson is unquestionably the most talented flute player of this generation. Her technical abilities exhibited in Free As a Bird are only outdone by the soulful reach of her music. I look forward to more of her original music in the future!"