Immerse yourself in the rich, symphonic world of Portuguese composer Joly Braga Santos with this captivating album, released in 2004 under the Marco-Polo label. Spanning a concise yet impactful 66 minutes, this collection showcases Santos' mastery of orchestral and concerto forms, featuring the evocative Cello Concerto, Op. 60, performed with exquisite sensitivity by cellist Jan Bastiaan Neven and the Algarve Orchestra under the baton of Álvaro Cassuto.
The album opens with the vibrant "Staccato Brilhante" and the hauntingly beautiful "Nocturno for Strings," setting the stage for the two Divertimentos. These works, Op. 32 and Op. 52, are playful and engaging, each divided into distinct movements that reveal Santos' inventive spirit and keen ear for orchestral color. The Cello Concerto, Op. 60, forms the heart of the album, a profound and deeply expressive work that demonstrates Santos' ability to create music of both emotional depth and structural sophistication.
This recording is a testament to Joly Braga Santos' significant contribution to 20th-century classical music, offering a compelling exploration of his distinctive voice. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Santos' work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album provides a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
Vinylscout