What we’re listening to…

It’s always interesting to know what recordings spark the interest of fellow music lovers. The list below reflects new and old recordings that look promising to us. We will periodically add to the list as new releases catch our attention. We welcome your comments and suggestions to info@guarnerihall.org.

David Nadien Plays Schubert, Franck & Debussy

David Nadien (1926-2014) was a violinist’s violinist. But Nadien never seemed to chase the limelight. After a short stint (1966-1970) as concertmaster of Leonard Bernstein’s New York Philharmonic, he was content to make a living as the top freelance recording violinist for the thriving commercial music business in New York City. Despite being less well-known than some of his contemporaries, he was truly one of the most gifted and brilliant violinists of the 20th century. Biddulph Recordings has just published previously unreleased recordings of Nadien and pianist David Hancock playing two of Schubert’s most beautiful and treacherous works, the Fantasy and the Rondo Brilliante. Re-releases of Franck and Debussy round out this CD, which we recommend as a great addition to any collection.

David Nadien Plays Schubert, Franck & Debussy

David Nadien (violin), David Hancock (piano)

Release Date: 18th Mar 2022

Label: Biddulph

Catalog No: 85012-2

The Lynx Project: Beautiful Small Things

 

The Lynx Project commissions art songs created from poetry written by primarily non-speaking, autistic individuals. The results are uniquely beautiful. The Lynx Project’s new album, Beautiful Small Things, was well-described by critic Sofia Rocha in her Chicago Tribune review: “Taken as a whole, beautiful small things is starkly powerful, with interesting music and moving texts throughout.” The CD, recorded in Guarneri Hall, is available as of April 20th and can be purchased here.

Lynx Project: Beautiful Small Things

Various Artists

Release date 4/20/22

Label: ArtistShare

Augusta Read Thomas: Bell Illuminations

Nimbus Records has just released a new CD of works of Augusta Read Thomas, Bell Illuminations. Many composers have been fascinated by the sound of bells, and Augusta Read Thomas is no exception. She has devoted a significant share of her compositional imagination to works recalling or employing bells: Carillon Sky, Resounding Earth, Bells Ring Summer, and Ripple Effects. Nimbus’ new CD Bell Illuminations features this aspect of one of today’s most beloved composers, and also includes NEXUS Chamber Music’s recording of Upon Wings of Words, commissioned by Guarneri Hall and NEXUS.

Augusta Read Thomas: Bell Illuminations

Various Artists

Release Date April 1, 2022

Label: Nimbus Records

Catalog Number NI6427