Post by Fugue November 18, 2009 (1 of 6)
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This is an extraordinary recording on many levels. Stephen Marchionda is a new name to me, and what a wonderful discovery! He possesses amazing technique that effortlessly allows him to play very technically challenging music without calling attention to it (He's not of the "Look ma, no hands" school of speed wizardry!). He also coaxes some beautiful tones out of his Montrero guitar. Scarlatti's Sonatas make excellent guitar transcriptions, and Stephen has assembled a recital that includes largely unfamiliar Sonatas as far as guitar recitals usually go(For some reason, many guitarists gravitate toward the same ones).
The sound is also wonderful. He is fairly closely miked so that no detail goes unnoticed, but there is a minimum of finger squeaks and other mechanical noises. Despite the miking proximity, there is a nice amount of reverb, so the overall effect is detailed yet spacious. The rear channels contain primarily ambient material.
Highly recommended!
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Post by tream June 8, 2010 (2 of 6)
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I just noticed that this received a rave review in Fanfare, albeit from a somewhat suspect source. The reviewer uses the pen name Ilya Oblomov and I have found his writing to be variable and often inaccurate - not one of the better reviewers at Fanfare. Having said that, the remarks above make this seem a desirable release.
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Post by Fugue June 9, 2010 (3 of 6)
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If two people pretty much rave about it, and one has played classical guitar for about 30 years :-), then it's probably a safe bet!
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Absolutely - I haven't got around to reviewing this yet but I agree that it's worth seeking out for those who fancy these works on guitar.
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Post by Fugue May 23, 2012 (5 of 6)
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There's a fine review of it now! :-)
I'm eagerly awaiting his new Albeniz recording--should be here in a few days.
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Post by Gussy May 23, 2012 (6 of 6)
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I have both these discs and can recommend them without hesitation - the playing, the recording, and let us not forget the music - all first class!
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