Search - Emily Skala, Norman Krieger, Johannes Brahms :: Voices Through Time

A Must Have CD

Philip Michael Smallwood | Woodbine, Maryland USA | 10/09/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Emily Skala, Principal Flutist of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, has released her first solo CD; Voices through Time. The CD includes an arrangement of the Brahms Op. 120 clarinet sonatas as well as Schubert's Theme & Variations on "Trockne Blumen". Ms. Skala's performance on the CD is nothing short of spectacular. One immediately is struck by her powerful sound in the opening measures of the Brahms E-flat Major sonata. Her phrasing, interpretation, and intonation are unmatched by any flutist of our generation. Ms. Skala's playing is like Lalique crystal; pure, captivating, and simply elegant. The highlight of the CD is her presentation for the first time, the original 5'th variation of Shubert's Trockne Blumen. When you hear it you will be struck by her dazzling technique. I would be remiss if I did not mention the fine performance of her accompanist, Norman Krieger. Mr. Krieger's playing is the "icing on the cake". If this CD is not in your collection you are doing yourself a great disservice."

Truly a performer to emulate....

Reader | 10/06/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am a flutist who wishes to pursue classical music as a career, as an orchestral player, soloist, and teacher. My teacher, Sarah Tuck of the San Diego Symphony, had me listen to this recording once in a lesson while discussing the importance of developing a mental concept of sound. Soon afterwards, I bought my own CD and since constantly listen to it for ideas about how I want to play the flute. Needless to say, I am most impressed with Ms. Skala's playing. Her sound has an uncanny balance of brilliance and darkness. Her use of vibrato beautifully supports her phrasing and dynamics, never sounding out of place or overpowering. In addition, listeners have the opportunity to hear Skala's fine articulation and extraordinary technique in the last two Schubert variations. Norman Krieger also does these works justice in his own right; his use of tone colors and note lengths supports the emotinality of Skala's playing and brings the musicianship on this recording to yet another level.

It is also a treat to read the program notes Skala wrote for this recording. Her writing is very eloquent and personal, and lovingly describes the process behind this brilliant performance and those who helped her along the way.

Ms. Skala and Mr. Krieger have set an example of how powerful classical music can be. I recommend this as an indispensable part of one's music library."

Krieger is a collaborator not accompanist

anna choi | New York | 02/11/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Bravi to Krieger and Skala.I agree with the previous review only to add that Mr. Krieger had an equal part in this cd. He is a collaborator not accompanist!"