This disc features an all-Piazzolla programme,
in arrangements for flute and guitar. A spirited and energetic
performance of
Libertango opens, in an effective arrangement
by Klaus Jäckle. The Cavatina Duo has built a reputation for performing
folk-inspired music from around the world, and they capture the
spirit of Piazzolla’s tangos well.
Revirado is particularly
enjoyable, with excellent technical control, a good sense of duo
ensemble and palpable conviction.
Introdución al Angel
demonstrates flautist Eugenia Moliner’s range of tone and beautifully
soaring high register, while the guitar provides a finely judged
balance with counter-melodies and rhythmic drive. This is a duo
that understands the repertoire and performs with just the right
amount of rubato to bring it to life, but without allowing their
interpretation to overshadow the composer’s ideas.
The
Tango-Etudes, originally composed for solo flute or violin, are expertly arranged and are heard here in a version for flute and guitar by Sergio and Clarice Assad. The arrangement is completely convincing, and the guitar part feels like a natural part of the work. This is another first-rate rendition, with some very good playing throughout and a spellbinding sense of pacing. I particularly enjoyed the percussive guitar writing at the opening of the third etude.
Oblivion is amongst my favourite Piazzolla. This performance is tender and warm, and is executed with control and musicianship.
Adios Nonino is another well known work, and this arrangement by Ian Murphy is highly effective. The disc ends with the
Cuatro estaciones Porteñas (The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires), which were arranged especially for the Cavatina Duo by Sergio Assad. This features some imaginative playing and well-crafted arrangements, which really help to bring the music to life.
This is an outstanding disc, which held my attention from beginning to end. I was particularly struck by the subtleties of phrasing and variety of musical expression that this duo was able to create within the music of a single composer. Piazzolla’s style is distinct, and yet these two musicianly players were able to enhance his style through their artistic expertise, bringing light and shade to the notes and creating an admirable sense of atmosphere.
Carla Rees
Cavatina Duo (Eugenia Moliner (flute), Denis Azabagic (guitar))
