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CD Review
Franz Schubert
- Concerto in A minor for Cello and Orchestra
- 'Rosamunde' D797 (Overture and Excerpts)
- Overture to 'Rosamunde' (The Magic Harp)
Hallé Orchestra/Hamilton Harty
Academy Sound & Vision Hallé CDHLT8003 60m DDD
Being a big fan of Hamilton Harty, I looked forward to reviewing and listening to this disc with some anticipation and can state that I was very satisfied on most of the major recording points.
The rare Cello Concerto which is just an orchestral transcription of the 'Arpeggione' Sonata by Gaspar Cassadó comes across very well with the aforementioned playing the solo part with great feeling and character. Harty provides judiciously timed and paced accompaniment and this recording is a major addition to the Schubert 'curiosity' catalogue.
I also enjoyed the 'Rosamunde' excerpts with Harty conducting the music with his customary verve and intensity especially in the lovely Ballet Music. The disc concludes with a rapid fire reading of 'The Magic Harp' that makes for a rousing finale.
Notes and illustrations are excellent as usual although the recordings obviously sound their age. However this is another essential addition to the historical catalogue and fans of such repertoire should not detract from acquiring it.
Copyright © 2005, Gerald Fenech
