Search - Vivaldi, James Galway :: Vivaldi: Six Flute Concertos

TIMELESS BOUNTY

Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 04/03/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Under Claudio Scimone's fine leadership, and with an ensemble as expert as I Solisti Veneti, Galway has never sounded so selflessly persuasive nor so charming as here in these six colorful flute concertos of Vivaldi [1678-1741]. With obvious devotion, his talent completely at the service of music and composer, he immerses himself, drawing fully on his emotional palette to create performances vividly imaginative and alive, yet also tender and wistful. Needless to say, Vivaldi's invention is bounty waiting to be tapped. Each concerto has individuality--- a personality, if you like--- and an allure that is hard to resist. No monotony exists anywhere here. Textures are rich, melodies sweet, design striking and effective, especially in the timeless, ethereal beauty of the slow movements. Galway relishes these bits of heaven, and it is a pleasure to hear him so rapt. Praise as well to Scimone's careful attention to detail, and to I Solisti's caressing warmth, all of which gives the greatest of pleasure.[Running time: 56:37]"