Sharon Isbin, the renowned Grammy-winning classical guitarist, presents a captivating collection of guitar concertos with her album "Tan Dun & Rouse: Guitar Concertos." Released on August 31, 2000, under Warner Classics International, this album spans 56 minutes of exquisite musical compositions that showcase Isbin's virtuosity and the rich tapestry of contemporary classical music.
The album features two distinct concertos: the "Concerto de Gaudí" by American composer Christopher Rouse and the "Guitar Concerto, 'Yi2'" by the acclaimed Chinese composer Tan Dun. Each concerto is a journey in itself, offering a blend of technical brilliance and emotional depth.
Rouse's "Concerto de Gaudí" is a three-movement work inspired by the architectural genius of Antoni Gaudí. The first movement, "Allegro," bursts with energy and rhythm, while the second, "Largo sereno," offers a serene and introspective contrast. The final movement, "Svolazzante," is playful and light, evoking the whimsical elements of Gaudí's designs.
Tan Dun's "Guitar Concerto, 'Yi2'" is a five-movement exploration of sound and texture, blending traditional Chinese musical elements with contemporary classical techniques. The concerto begins with "Rubato," a free-flowing movement that sets the stage for the hauntingly beautiful "Adagio." The third movement, "Andante agitato," introduces a sense of urgency and tension, which is released in the contemplative "Cadenza." The concerto concludes with the "Ending," a movement that brings the piece to a satisfying and resonant close.
Sharon Isbin's masterful performances bring these complex and evocative works to life, making "Tan Dun & Rouse: Guitar Concertos" a standout addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Vinylscout