Rachmaninoff, Gershwin, Rubenstein, and Horovitz played on it. Paderewski took it on his tour across the States. Today, Billy Joel, Lang Lang, and Diana Krall declare their loyalty to it. Steinway - because that's what we're talking about - is not just an instrument, but a quality in itself...
The quintet is made up of section leaders of the Warsaw Camerata orchestra: Adam Zarzycki - 1st violin, Monika Kos-Nowicka - 2nd violin, Michał Styczyński - viola, Jerzy Wołochowicz - cello and Małgorzata Kołcz - double bass.
Colorful, diverse, engaging album. Performances are free, virtuosic, and captivating where indicated, lyrical and contemplative in slow parts. In a word - a piece of very good music in the hands of a young, talented, and ambitious musician.
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George Gershwin was an American composer, pianist, and conductor, considered one of the greatest creators of jazz music and modern classical music. His piece "Summertime" is known and loved all over the world. "Summertime" is one of the most popular arias from Gershwin's opera titled "Porgy and Bess." It was written in 1934 and has since become incredibly recognizable. Its melody and lyrics express the nostalgic mood of summer and provide the listener with an exceptional musical experience. In this particular performance of the piece, arranged for a wind quintet, we can see a completely new dimension of this composition. The wind instruments give Gershwin's music an extraordinary character, emphasizing its rocking, soothing mood on one hand, while adding uniqueness and originality on the other. Janis Joplin, a well-known American rock vocalist, also performed "Summertime" on her album, but in a more energetic arrangement. Comparing both performances, one can notice differences in interpretation, yet the combination of these two artists shows how universal and versatile Gershwin's music can be. The era in which George Gershwin created was a period of the emergence of jazz and the development of modern classical music in America. He contributed to the development of both genres, blending jazz elements with traditional classical music. His compositions are full of virtuosity, harmonic innovations, and melodic experiments. In summary, "Summertime" in the arrangement for a wind quintet is a masterpiece by Gershwin that evokes both admiration and relaxation. It is essential that different artists interpret his music in various ways, showcasing the versatility and universality of Gershwin's creativity. Ultimately, the purpose of the piece always depends on the listener's perception - for some, it may be a lullaby, while for others, an inspiring musical experience.
This piece is a real firecracker! Although the performance for a brass quintet might be more dreamy and lullaby-like, it still leaves an incredible impression. George Gershwin created an immortal melody that everyone surely knows. It's great that the musicians decided to present it in a completely new light. Even though I am a fan of Janis Joplin, I must admit that this version is an interesting refresh. It's perfect for listening while relaxing or for getting lost in summer memories. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys light and pleasant sounds!