CastelnuovoTedesco: Platero & I, Op. 190

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco's "Platero & I, Op. 190," a captivating collection of chamber music that beautifully captures the essence of the beloved Spanish poem by Juan Ramón Jiménez. Released on November 1, 2015, under the ATMA Classique label, this album is a testament to Castelnuovo-Tedesco's mastery of the guitar and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his compositions.

Comprising 28 tracks, this album is a journey through various moods and scenes, each piece painting a vivid picture inspired by the poetic narrative of Platero and his companion. From the tender "Lullaby Singer" to the melancholic "Nostalgia," and the lively "Carnival," the album offers a diverse range of musical expressions. The pieces vary in duration, with the entire album spanning approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.

Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, an Italian-American composer, brings his unique blend of Spanish and Italian influences to this work, creating a sound that is both intimate and expansive. His compositions are known for their lyrical beauty and technical brilliance, and "Platero & I, Op. 190" is no exception. The album showcases Castelnuovo-Tedesco's ability to convey the deepest emotions through his music, making it a profound and moving experience for any classical music enthusiast.

Whether you are a longtime fan of Castelnuovo-Tedesco's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is a must-listen. It is a beautiful representation of his artistry and a wonderful exploration of the timeless story of Platero and his friend.

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.