Roberto Gerhard, Schahrazada, Cancionero de Pedrell

Dive into the rich musical tapestry of Roberto Gerhard's "Schahrazada, Cancionero de Pedrell," a captivating album that showcases the composer's unique blend of influences and masterful compositional skills. Released in 1988 on the Etcetera label, this album is a testament to Gerhard's prolific songwriting and arrangement prowess, featuring a diverse collection of works that span various regions and musical styles.

The album is divided into two main sections: "L'infantament meravelloos de Schahrazada, Op. 1" and "Cancionero de Pedrell." The first section presents a series of enchanting songs that draw inspiration from the tales of Scheherazade, each track offering a unique musical narrative that transports the listener to a world of wonder and imagination. The second section, "Cancionero de Pedrell," is a set of eight songs for soprano and chamber ensemble, each a beautiful arrangement of traditional folk songs from different regions of Spain, including Catalonia, Asturias, Galicia, and Valencia. These songs offer a glimpse into the rich musical heritage of Spain, expertly arranged and performed by Gerhard.

Throughout the album, Gerhard's compositional aesthetic shines through, reflecting his Catalan roots and his experiences living in Cambridge. The album's duration of 51 minutes provides a satisfying listen, with each track carefully crafted to showcase Gerhard's unique voice and musical vision. Whether you're a fan of classical music, folk music, or simply appreciate beautiful compositions, "Schahrazada, Cancionero de Pedrell" is an album that will captivate and inspire.