Nominee in the Orchestral category

Andrew Farach-Colton

“… The Basque musicians’ performances are fine, especially in the Cowell. Maestro Trevino’s direction lights up a broad range of offbeat, worth Americana.”

Editor’s Choice – Orchestral

“…Loeffler’s lushly scored, ravishing music conjures a scenario of sensuous longing and dangerous conflict, with long-lined, arching melodies and vibrant orchestral colours redolent of French late-Romanticism-Impressionism. I loved it; why isn’t it better known?.. The brief (under seven minutes) tone poem [Hanson’s Before the Dawn] here receives its long overdue, first-ever recording. Henry Cowell (1897-1965) spent the winter of 1956-1957 in Iran … Three works resulted: Persian Set, Homage to Iran and the 19-minute Variations for Orchestra (1956) recorded here. It’s filled with exotic sonorities hinting at arcane magic and nocturnal mysteries. Thanks to conductor Robert Trevino and the Basque National Orchestra.”

“…The emphasis here is on the tonal, and with just a little effort on the listener’s part, the rewards of the music are considerable – particularly in these exemplary performances. All four American composers on this new album by the Basque National Orchestra and conductor Robert Trevino wrote music that was known, played and esteemed during their lifetimes …”

“Rarely encountered orchestral works by four early 20th Century American Composers with contrasting styles, expertly played and sumptuously recorded.”

“…a terrific album, commandingly played, that adds to our knowledge and appreciation of this too-long-neglected repertoire. Bravo.”

Artistic Quality 10      Sound Quality 10

“…The performances here are all splendid… Robert Trevino and the Basque National Orchestra seem to have a great thing going: an enterprising conductor leading a talented and enthusiastic ensemble with both swagger and sensitivity to burn. Ondine’s fine sonics let you hear everything that you should, in a warm, well-balanced acoustic frame. You’ll love this.”