Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez

Album Description

Experience the captivating artistry of Xuefei Yang in this stunning album featuring a blend of classical masterpieces and contemporary compositions. This recording showcases Xuefei Yang's virtuosity and deep musical sensitivity, accompanied by the Orquestra Simfònica de Barcelona i Nacional de Catalunya under the baton of Eiji Oue.

The album opens with Joaquín Rodrigo's iconic "Concierto de Aranjuez," a work that has become synonymous with the guitar and orchestra collaboration. Xuefei Yang's interpretation brings a fresh perspective to this beloved concerto, highlighting her technical prowess and expressive depth. The recording is meticulously balanced, allowing the guitar to shine with clarity and warmth against the rich orchestral backdrop.

In addition to Rodrigo's masterpiece, the album features the world premiere recording of Stephen Goss's "Albéniz Concerto." This innovative work is a tribute to Isaac Albéniz, weaving together some of his most celebrated piano compositions and arranging them for guitar and orchestra. Goss's concerto is a testament to his compositional skill and his deep understanding of the guitar's expressive capabilities.

The album also includes Albéniz's "España, Op. 165," a suite of six evocative pieces that capture the essence of Spanish music. Xuefei Yang's arrangements for guitar and orchestra bring a new dimension to these familiar works, showcasing her ability to reinterpret classical repertoire with fresh insight and creativity.

Recorded in the acoustically superb Pau Casals Hall at L'Auditori in Barcelona, this album captures the essence of Xuefei Yang's artistry in a setting that complements her musical vision. The recording quality is exceptional, ensuring that every nuance of her playing and the orchestra's performance is captured with precision and clarity.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Xuefei Yang's mastery of the guitar, combined with the orchestral brilliance of the Orquestra Simfònica de Barcelona i Nacional de Catalunya, makes this a standout release in the world of classical music.

8 november 2010

About Xuefei Yang

Xuefei Yang is a trailblazing Chinese classical guitarist, renowned for her exquisite technique and captivating performances. Born in Beijing, she is the first Chinese guitarist to launch an international career, studying at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music. Xuefei's journey began in the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution, a time when Western music was banned in China, making her pioneering spirit all the more remarkable. She has since performed with leading orchestras and artists worldwide, earning acclaim for her innovative recordings and ability to connect with audiences beyond the guitar community. Xuefei is also the Artistic Director of the Changsha International Guitar Festival in China and has released several acclaimed albums, including "Sojourn: The Very Best of Xuefei Yang" and "Guitar Favourites." Her repertoire spans traditional Chinese music and classical guitar staples, showcasing her versatility and deep musicality. Xuefei's performances are not to be missed, as she continues to push the boundaries of classical guitar and inspire audiences globally.