The third in a series of albums by this leading flute and piano duo (and their seventh recording for Divine Art) in which we welcome back some iconic recordings previously issued by ASV (and long unavailable) together with some new recordings; this 2 CD set at mid price has several major works by British and Irish composers, from the early 18th to the late 20th century. As ever the duo demonstrate both remarkable virtuosity and also super musicality and depth in these mainly ‘Romantic’ works. The set is provided in luxury packaging at no extra cost, with detailed notes on the music. From the funfilled quirky and jazz-inflected Sonata by Malcolm Arnold through more ‘serious’ pieces by Leighton and Mathias, back to the late baroque sonata of John Ranish, this program is a perfect compilation of lyrical music for flute and piano.
Artist: Paul Rhodes
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The Expressive Voice of the Flute
Among the instruments, the flute is one which has one of the widest expressive tones, especially heard to advantage in this collection of 46 light classics, ranging from the dreamy and romantic to the lively and sparkling. Original works are joined by many arrangements of popular orchestral or piano pieces, many by the performers. A feast of virtuosity and superb for both concentrated listening or lightening the mood. Over 145 minutes of great music. This set is a sequel to ‘Flute Vocalise’ (DDV24156) another fine collection (single CD midprice).
Some tracks on this set were previously available on ASV and have been remastered and new recordings added.
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A Song Without Words – The Legacy of Paul Taffanel
In the late 19th and early 20th century, Paul Taffanel was probably the most influential figure in the world of flute music, as performer and composer, but more so as inspirer, commissioner and supporter of fine works by a multitude of composers; this set contains many of those, most of which, having fallen out of fashion in the modernist 20th century, have never been recorded until now – indeed many have been unperformed for years. A great shame as these are without exception, exquisite and lovely works, beautifully performed. One or two well known pieces are included too. The artists have put an immense amount of dedication into this, their ‘magnum opus’. over 76 minutes on each CD all at mid price.
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By the River in Spring
The CD takes its title from the well loved piece by Michael Head. This recital of British music for flute and piano is mainly romantic in mood, but not sentimental, given the robust nature of the sonatas by Alwyn and Leighton (both rarities despite the stature of their composers). A splendid third divine art CD for Smith and Rhodes which includes a number of little gems recorded for the first time.
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To Pan and Syrinx – Romantic Flute and Piano
Following their first Divine Art album “Enchantment”, acclaimed flute and piano duo Ken Smith and Paul Rhodes have recorded a sumptuous disc of romantic music, including the rare and lovely Sonata by Melanie Bonis, one of the few women composers of the late 19th /early 20th centuries, and who was a pupil of César Franck. Presented in luxury digipak.
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Enchantment – music for flute and piano
Kenneth Smith is principal flute of the Philharmonia Orchestra, and also has a busy solo career; for many years he has partnered pianist Paul Rhodes, in a duo which has gained an enviable reputation for quality in both the concert hall and on recordings. The duo’s first CD for Divine Art features a glorious programme of French romantic music*.
Supplied in a high quality digipak. Cover art: from “Paris by Night” by the esteemed artist Nina Mikhailenko.
* We know Franck was Belgian – but he was also a Francophone, and spent much time in Paris.