Sharon Isbin, the acclaimed guitarist, invites you to explore the rich musical landscapes of Spain and Italy with her latest album, "Souvenirs of Spain & Italy." Released on August 23, 2019, under the Cedille label, this captivating collection spans a little over an hour and offers a delightful journey through classical compositions that showcase Isbin's virtuosity and the enchanting interplay between guitar and strings.
The album opens with Luigi Boccherini's Guitar Quintet, Op. 143, a four-movement work that blends elegance and vigor, followed by Antonio Vivaldi's Chamber Concerto in D Major, RV 93, expertly arranged for guitar and string quartet by Eduardo Pujol. Joaquin Turina's "La oración del torero," Op. 34, in its version for string quartet, adds a touch of Spanish fervor.
The album concludes with Boccherini's Guitar Quintet No. 4 in D Major, G. 448, a lively and dynamic piece that encapsulates the spirit of Spanish and Italian musical traditions. Throughout the album, Sharon Isbin's masterful playing and the exquisite performances by her fellow musicians bring these timeless pieces to life, making "Souvenirs of Spain & Italy" a memorable and engaging listening experience.