"Bravo Bassoon" is a captivating classical album that showcases the extraordinary talent of bassoonist Daniel Smith. Released on January 1, 1993, under the Decca (UMO) label, this album is a testament to Smith's virtuosity and his ability to breathe new life into a diverse range of musical pieces. Spanning a duration of one hour and four minutes, the album features 23 tracks that blend classical elegance with a touch of whimsy.
The album opens with Scott Joplin's "Original Rags," setting a lively tone that contrasts beautifully with the more somber pieces that follow, such as "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" from the musical "Roberta" and "Someone To Watch Over Me" from "Oh Kay!". Smith's mastery of the bassoon is evident in every note, from the playful "The Easy Winners" to the hauntingly beautiful "My Man's Gone Now" from "Porgy and Bess".
"Bravo Bassoon" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through various musical styles and eras. From the classical compositions of Schumann's "Kinderszenen, Op. 15: Träumerei" and Rossini's "Il barbiere di Siviglia" to the folk-inspired "Andaluza (Spanish Dance No. 5)" and the patriotic "Yankee Doodle Variations," Smith's versatility shines through. The album also includes lesser-known gems like "The Chrysanthemum" and "The Maiden's Blush (Bump Her Belly)," adding depth and variety to the listening experience.
Accompanied by Jonathan Still and The Caravaggion Ensemble, Daniel Smith delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or simply appreciate fine musicianship, "Bravo Bassoon" is an album that will delight and inspire.
Vinylscout