Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Mario Castelnuvo-Tedesco's "Greeting Cards," a captivating collection of chamber music that showcases the composer's brilliance and versatility. Released on November 18, 2022, by Brilliant Classics, this two-disc set is a treasure trove of 21 intricate and delightful pieces, each a unique homage to a different musician or friend.
Composed between 1953 and 1967, these "Greeting Cards" are small, unexpected tributes that Castelnuvo-Tedesco crafted with his signature charm and sophistication. The album spans a variety of styles and influences, from Spanish and Italian folk music to Japanese and Brazilian rhythms, reflecting the composer's deep appreciation for global musical traditions.
The centerpiece of the album is the "Greeting Cards, Op. 170," a series of pieces that pay tribute to notable figures such as Andrés Segovia, Siegfried Behrend, and Christopher Parkening. Each piece is a miniature masterpiece, showcasing Castelnuvo-Tedesco's ability to blend technical virtuosity with lyrical beauty.
In addition to the "Greeting Cards," the album also features the "Capriccio sopra la Lonananza" and the "Sonata Mediterranea," two works that further highlight Castelnuvo-Tedesco's mastery of the guitar and his deep connection to the Mediterranean musical heritage.
Performed with exquisite skill and sensitivity by guitarist Cristiano Porqueddu, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Castelnuvo-Tedesco's music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Greeting Cards" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to delight and inspire.
2022 Brilliant Classics2022 Brilliant Classics
Tracks
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: I. Tonadilla on the Name of Andrés SegoviaMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: II. Rondel on the Name of Siegfried BehrendMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: III. Preludio in forma di habanera on the Name of Bruno TonazziMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: IV. Tanka on the Name of Isao TakahashiMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: V. A Lullaby for Eugene to Eugene Robin EscovadoMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: VI. Song of the Azores on the Name of EnosMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: VII. Canzone Siciliana sul nome di Mario GangiMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: VIII. Ballatella on the Name of Christopher ParkeningMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: IX. Sarabande on the Name of Rey de la TorreMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: X. Romanza sul nome di Oscar GhigliaMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XI. Homage to PurcellMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XII. Canción Cubana on the Name of Hector GarciaMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XIII. Canción Venezolana sul nome di Alirio DíazMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XIV. Canción Argentina sul nome di Ernesto BitettiMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XV. Estudio sul nome di Manuel López RamosMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XVI. Aria da Chiesa sul nome di Ruggero ChiesaMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XVII. Brasileira sul nome di Laurindo AlmeidaMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XVIII. Japanese Print on the Name of Jiro MatsudaMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XIX. Volo d'angeli sul nome di Angelo GilardinoMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XX. Canzone Calabrese on the Name of Ernest CalabriaMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Greeting Cards, Op. 170: XXI. Tarantella campana on the Name of Eugene Di NoviMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Cristiano Porqueddu
Capriccio sopra la LonananzaAngelo Gilardino, Cristiano Porqueddu
Sonata Mediterranea: I. CipressiAngelo Gilardino, Cristiano Porqueddu
Sonata Mediterranea: II. Ninna NannaAngelo Gilardino, Cristiano Porqueddu
Sonata Mediterranea: III. Pini sul MareAngelo Gilardino, Cristiano Porqueddu
Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, born in Florence in 1895, was an Italian composer, pianist, and writer whose musical journey spanned continents and genres. Renowned for his evocative guitar compositions, Castelnuovo-Tedesco penned nearly one hundred works for the instrument, securing his place as one of the 20th century's most significant guitar composers. His musical prowess extended to the silver screen, where he spent fifteen years as a film composer for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, contributing to over 200 Hollywood movies. Beyond his film scores, Castelnuovo-Tedesco's concertos for violinist Jascha Heifetz and cellist Gregor Piatigorsky stand as testaments to his versatility and depth. Forced into exile by Mussolini's regime, Castelnuovo-Tedesco's story is one of resilience and artistic brilliance, leaving behind a rich legacy of chamber music and concert works that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Vinylscout
Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco
