Salut d'amour

Album Description

"Salut d'amour" is a captivating classical album that showcases the extraordinary talents of Stefano Grondona on guitar, accompanied by the renowned Aldo Ciccolini on harpsichord and piano. Released on September 20, 2019, under the Stradivarius label, this album is a testament to the enduring beauty of classical music, featuring a blend of solo and duet performances that highlight the intricate interplay between guitar, harpsichord, and piano.

The album spans a duration of 55 minutes, encompassing 11 tracks that range from solo guitar pieces to collaborative works for guitar and piano, or guitar and harpsichord. Stefano Grondona's virtuosity is evident in his renditions of classical favorites and lesser-known gems, including original compositions and arrangements. The album opens with a serene "Prelude for Guitar" and "Prelude for Guitar & Harpsichord," setting a contemplative tone before delving into the dynamic "Guitar Sonata" in three movements. Highlights include "Greeting Cards, Op. 170: No. 5, Tonadilla (On the Name of Andrés Segovia)," a tribute to the legendary guitarist, and the enchanting "Alba," a solo guitar piece that showcases Grondona's expressive playing.

One of the standout features of "Salut d'amour" is the collaboration between Stefano Grondona and Aldo Ciccolini, a pianist known for his refined technique and deep musicality. Their partnership is beautifully showcased in pieces like "Fantasia for Guitar & Piano, Op. 145," where the guitar and piano engage in a lively dialogue. The album concludes with a charming arrangement of "Salut d'amour, Op. 12," arranged by Stefano Grondona for guitar, adding a touch of romance to the collection.

Recorded in the acoustically pristine "Auditorium Phoenix" in Montebelluna, Italy, in August 1999, "Salut d'amour" benefits from exceptional sound quality that brings out the finest details of the performances. This album is a delight for classical music enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the rich repertoire of guitar and keyboard music. Stefano Grondona's artistry shines through in every note, making "Salut d'amour" a memorable addition to any music collection.

20 sep 2019

2019 Stradivarius

About Stefano Grondona

Stefano Grondona, born in Genoa in 1958, is a renowned Italian classical guitarist whose career is marked by a deep commitment to the art of guitar playing and its rich history. Grondona's journey began under the tutelage of esteemed guitarists Sergio Notaro, Oscar Ghiglia, and even the legendary Andrés Segovia, who counted Grondona among his favorite students. His extensive concert tours and recordings have solidified his place as a leading figure in the international guitar scene.

Grondona is not just a performer but also a dedicated scholar and educator. He formed the guitar ensemble Nova Lira Orfeo XXI in 2002, inspired by the Barcelona music society Lira Orfeo, founded by Miguel Llobet. His passion for historical guitar music has led him to explore and perform on rare and historical guitars, offering audiences a unique and authentic experience.

In addition to his performing career, Grondona is a professor of guitar at the State Conservatory of Vicenza and has given masterclasses at prestigious institutions worldwide. His discography is vast and varied, featuring works by composers such as Bach, Sor, and Falla, as well as his own transcriptions and arrangements. Grondona's recordings are celebrated for their technical virtuosity and deep musical insight, making him a favorite among classical guitar enthusiasts.