Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical guitar with John C. Williams' "Classic Williams -- Romance of the Guitar," a timeless collection released in 1984 under the Sony Classical label. This album is a testament to Williams' virtuosity and his ability to breathe new life into both classic and contemporary pieces. Spanning a rich duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a journey through diverse musical landscapes, each track meticulously arranged to showcase the guitar's versatility and Williams' masterful technique.
The album opens with a romantic arrangement of "Romance" by J. Williams, setting the stage for a series of beautifully orchestrated pieces. From the hauntingly beautiful "Pavane, Op. 50" to the lively "Asturias" from Albéniz's "Suite Española No. 1," each track is a masterclass in guitar performance. Williams' interpretations of iconic works like "El Cóndor Pasa" and "Cavatina" are particularly noteworthy, highlighting his ability to infuse familiar melodies with fresh energy.
"Classic Williams -- Romance of the Guitar" also features a selection of traditional and contemporary pieces, including "Las 4 Estaciones Porteñas" and "Planxty Madame Maxwell," arranged for two guitars. These duets add a dynamic layer to the album, showcasing Williams' collaborative spirit and technical prowess.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a captivating exploration of the guitar's expressive range. John C. Williams' "Classic Williams -- Romance of the Guitar" is a celebration of the instrument and a testament to the enduring appeal of classical guitar music.
(P) 1984, 1988, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2000 SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT
Tracks
Romance (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar & Orchestra)Traditional, John C. Williams, William Goodchild, String Orchestra
Pavane, Op. 50 (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar & Orchestra)Gabriel Fauré, John C. Williams, William Goodchild, BBC Concert Orchestra
SunburstAndrew York, John C. Williams
Una Limosna por el Amor de Dios "El Ultimo Canto"Agustín Barrios Mangoré, John C. Williams
Suite Española No. 1, Op. 47: No. 5, Asturias (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar) - ExcerptIsaac Albéniz, John C. Williams
3 Gymnopédies: No. 3, Lent et grave (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar & Orchestra)Erik Satie, John C. Williams, William Goodchild, String Orchestra
El Cóndor Pasa (Arr. J. Morel for Guitar)Traditional, Daniel Alomía Robles, John C. Williams
CavatinaStanley Myers, John C. Williams, String Orchestra
Las 4 Estaciones Porteñas: II. Verano Porteño (Arr. B. Benitez)Astor Piazzolla, John C. Williams
Scherzino Mexicano (Arr. A. Díaz for Guitar)Manuel Ponce, John C. Williams
Canción de CunaAgustín Barrios Mangoré, John C. Williams
4 Valses Venezolanos: No. 3, Natalia "Vals Criollo"Antonio Lauro, John C. Williams
La Vida Breve: Danza española No. 1 (Arr. E. Pujol for 2 Guitars)Manuel de Falla, John C. Williams, Timothy Kain
Planxty Madame Maxwell (Arr. Gerald Garcia for 2 Guitars)Turlough O'Carolan, John C. Williams, Timothy Kain
3 Epitafios: No. 3 in D Minor (Arr. for Guitar) - ExcerptMikis Theodorakis, John C. Williams
Suite in E Major, BWV 1006a: I. Prélude (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar)Johann Sebastian Bach, John C. Williams
Keyboard Sonata in E Major, K. 380 (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar)Domenico Scarlatti, John C. Williams
Trio Sonata in C Major, RV 82: III. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, John C. Williams, János Rolla, Liszt Ferenc Kamarazenekar
Concierto de Aranjuez: II. AdagioJoaquín Rodrigo, John C. Williams, Christine Pendrill, Louis Frémaux, Philharmonia Orchestra