Composer: Slava Grigoryan
Works: Caprice in A minor, Op.1 No.24 (arr. Paganini); Variations on a Theme by Mozart, Op.9 (Sor); Grand Solo (Sonata Prima), Op.14 (Sor); L’Encouragement, Op.34 (Sor); Grand Overture, Op.61 (Giuliani); Variations on a Theme of Handel, Op.107 (Giuliani)
Performers: Slava Grigoryan, guitar; Leonard Grigoryan, guitar
Recording: Recorded 2001?
Label: ABC 427 224-2
The works presented in this recording showcase the remarkable versatility and technical prowess of the Australian guitarist Slava Grigoryan. Focusing on the contributions of the early 19th-century guitar repertoire, particularly those by Fernando Sor and Mauro Giuliani, this disc also includes a transcription of Niccolò Paganini’s famed Caprice No. 24. The selected pieces are emblematic of the classical guitar’s evolution and the technical demands placed upon its performers, standing at the crossroads of the guitar’s instrumental capabilities and the emotive expressiveness of the Romantic period.
Grigoryan’s interpretation of Sor’s “Variations on a Theme by Mozart” is particularly noteworthy for its wit and buoyancy. The playful character of the variations is captured with an effervescent touch, avoiding the more somber interpretations that can sometimes overshadow this work. The opening theme is articulated with clarity, setting the stage for the subsequent variations, which reveal a spectrum of colors and dynamics. Grigoryan’s phrasing is not only technically proficient but also imbued with a sense of narrative that invites the listener to engage with the music on a deeper level. The “Grand Solo” exhibits contrasting moods with its brooding opening and spirited subsequent sections, showcasing Grigoryan’s ability to navigate the dichotomy between introspection and exuberance.
The collaboration between Slava and his brother Leonard in “L’Encouragement” offers a delightful interplay that is both technically assured and musically cohesive. Their synchronization is commendable, with each guitarist responding to the other’s nuances, creating a dialogue that feels both spontaneous and rehearsed. This piece, being one of Sor’s most celebrated duet works, benefits from their evident rapport, which enhances the work’s charm and charm. Giuliani’s works, too, are performed with authority; the “Grand Overture” resonates with precision, and the variations on Handel’s theme reflect Grigoryan’s ability to maintain a lightness of touch while executing virtuosic passages.
The technical execution is uniformly excellent, with Grigoryan demonstrating a mastery over the guitar that allows for an effortless traversal of the more challenging passages. Notably, the articulation throughout the performance is precise, with every note ringing clearly, showcasing the subtleties of the composers’ intentions. The recording quality itself is commendable, with a close microphone placement that enhances the sweet, rounded tone of the guitar. The use of low-tension strings contributes to an open timbre that is both rich and inviting, allowing the listener to appreciate the nuances of Grigoryan’s playing without the harshness that sometimes accompanies recordings of this genre.
Comparatively, while there are numerous recordings of these works, Grigoryan’s approach stands out for its freshness and interpretative clarity. His ability to combine technical prowess with a deep musicality offers a refreshing perspective on familiar repertoire. The inclusion of Paganini’s Caprice, transcribed for guitar, is a highlight; Grigoryan meets the formidable challenges of this piece with apparent ease, transforming it into a vehicle of lyrical expression rather than mere technical display. His interpretation reveals the inherent musicality of the piece, often overshadowed by its virtuosic requirements.
This recording encapsulates Slava Grigoryan’s exceptional talent and deep understanding of the classical guitar repertoire. His interpretations breathe new life into well-trodden works, and the technical execution, combined with thoughtful musical insights, makes this album a significant contribution to the canon of classical guitar recordings. Grigoryan not only demonstrates the guitar’s capabilities but also elevates the music to an expressive plane, making this disc a worthy addition to any classical guitar enthusiast’s collection.
