Celebrate the musical prowess of the renowned recorder virtuoso Michala Petri with her captivating album, "50th Birthday Concert With Kremerata Baltica." Recorded on April 28, 2009, and released under the OUR Recordings label, this album is a testament to Petri's extraordinary talent and versatility. Collaborating with the esteemed Kremerata Baltica, Petri delivers a mesmerizing performance that spans a diverse range of compositions, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works.
The album opens with Antonio Vivaldi's Recorder Concerto in D Minor, Op. 9, No. 2, showcasing Petri's technical brilliance and expressive depth. The program continues with Yi Chen's evocative "The Ancient Chinese Beauty," a three-movement suite that blends traditional Chinese influences with Western classical music. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Andante in C Major, K. 315, adds a touch of elegance and grace to the repertoire.
Alexander Vassiliev's Concerto for Strings offers a rich tapestry of sounds, with its four distinct movements providing a dynamic and engaging listening experience. The album also features Nino Rota's poignant "Valere lubere (to say goodbye)," a piece that highlights Petri's ability to convey deep emotion through her playing. Vivaldi's Recorder Concerto in C Major, RV 443, rounds out the program with its lively and spirited movements.
Adding a playful twist, the album concludes with Variations on Happy Birthday, where Petri and Kremerata Baltica infuse the familiar tune with a variety of styles, including polka, waltz, tango, and csardas. This delightful finale showcases the ensemble's versatility and Petri's ability to bring a fresh perspective to well-known melodies.
With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of musical delights that will captivate both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. Michala Petri's masterful performance, combined with the exquisite playing of Kremerata Baltica, makes this album a memorable celebration of her 50th birthday and a testament to her enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
Vinylscout