Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical music with Guy Johnston's "Themes and Variations," a stunning album released in March 2019 under Orchid Classics. This exquisite collection of choral and classical pieces showcases the extraordinary talent of Guy Johnston, accompanied by Tom Poster on piano, and features a diverse range of compositions that highlight the beauty and depth of the cello and piano duo.
The album opens with Beethoven's "7 Variations on 'Bei Männern, welche Liebe fühlen'," a lively and intricate piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. From there, you'll journey through a variety of compositions, including Schubert's "Auf dem Strom," a hauntingly beautiful lied that has been masterfully arranged for voice, cello, and piano. The album also features works by Mendelssohn, Saint-Saëns, and Rachmaninoff, each offering a unique perspective on the themes of love, longing, and the human experience.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "The Swan" from Saint-Saëns' "Carnival of the Animals," a delicate and evocative piece that showcases Johnston's exceptional skill and sensitivity as a cellist. The album also includes a number of variations, including "Variations concertantes in D Major" by Mendelssohn and "Variations on a Theme of Rossini" by Saint-Saëns, each offering a different take on the theme of variation and transformation.
Throughout the album, you'll be struck by the chemistry between Johnston and Poster, as they weave together a tapestry of sound that is both rich and nuanced. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Themes and Variations" is sure to captivate and inspire you. So sit back, relax, and let the music transport you to another world.