Marzendorfer - Boieldieu: Concerto in C Major/ Rodrigo: Concert-Serenade

It is certainly no secret that composers have tended to neglect the harp as a concert instrument. But having listened to this delightful recording by Deutsche Grammophon you will certainly ask yourself why! Boïeldieu's classically conceived C Major Concerto is distinguished principally for its lovely melodies and subtle instrumentation which allows even the softest plucked solo passage to shimmer through above the orchestra. Rodrigo's Concert Serenade on the B-side is a real highlight, for Nicanor Zabaleta, soloist and dedicatee of the work, has bewitched his instrument and performs breakneck passages with unbridled energy and sheer joy while the orchestra erupts with a veritable lava-flow of rhythm. The Finale in particular is taken to the very limits of virtuosity. For anyone who appreciates Rodrigo's guitar concertos, this record is a must!