(21-CD) RODRIGO EDITION

On this, the largest set ever compiled of one of the last century's most popular composers, we may not only renew our familiarity with the Concierto de Aranjuez, or perhaps with one of the other ever-melodious guitar concertos that sustain his reputation with audiences, but also discover chamber, instrumental, choral and especially vocal works which testify to a creative imagination confident in the formation of its style but never satisfied with repetition, one which responded directly to poetic and lyric inspiration, and transformed its ideas with unfailing skill and respect for the idiom under consideration. The floating melismas that open the Cantico dedicated to St Francis of Assisi share a visionary aspect with the hymns on Qum'ran texts that are as far as can be imagined from the jolly folkloristic character of certain song-cycles. The performances gathered here are authoritative, many of them made as they were under the aegis of the Rodrigo Foundation, and many also exclusive to the Rodrigo Edition on Brilliant Classics. For anyone who loves Spanish music, anyone who wants to listen beyond the Concierto de Aranjuez, or anyone who delights in unfailingly tuneful music, this set will have a compelling appeal. Other information: - A new Edition from Brilliant Classics: the (near) complete works of Joaquin Rodrigo! - Rodrigo is without doubt one of the most important composers of 20th century Spain. His works, in traditional romantic or neo classical style, incorporate elements of the Spanish culture and folklore, never losing his own personal language, the imprint of his genius. - Apart from his world famous guitar concerto Concierto de Aranjuez this set offers a wealth of orchestral, chamber, vocal and solo music, a treasure trove of inspired works written with a warm and human feeling. - Excellent performances by Spain's foremost musicians, many of which bear the stamp of the composer's approval and esteem.