Mauro Giuliani - Giuliani: Sérénades, Vol. 1 (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical guitar with Mauro Giuliani's "Giuliani: Sérénades, Vol. 1". Released on October 23, 2015, under the HORTUS label, this album is a captivating collection of Giuliani's serénades and variations, showcasing his mastery of the classical guitar.

The album opens with the expansive "Grande Sérénade en Ré Majeur, Op. 82," a seven-movement work that demonstrates Giuliani's compositional prowess and technical skill. Each variation offers a unique exploration of the central theme, taking the listener on a journey through a range of emotions and moods. The serénade concludes with a lively "Allegro brillante," leaving the listener exhilarated and eager for more.

The second half of the album features the "Sérénade en Sol Majeur, Op. 127," another seven-movement work that showcases Giuliani's ability to craft intricate and engaging variations. The album also includes two sets of variations on popular themes of the time, "Raccolta di Variazioni di Mad. Catalani 'Oh dolce concento'" and "Variazioni sull'aria 'La Biondina in gondoletta'," both of which demonstrate Giuliani's ability to take a simple melody and transform it into a complex and captivating piece.

Throughout the album, Giuliani's playing is characterized by its clarity, precision, and expressiveness. His technical virtuosity is on full display, but never at the expense of musicality. Each note is played with purpose and intent, resulting in a performance that is both thrilling and deeply moving.

"Giuliani: Sérénades, Vol. 1" is a testament to Mauro Giuliani's enduring legacy as one of the greatest classical guitar composers and performers of all time. Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. So sit back, relax, and let the enchanting melodies of Mauro Giuliani transport you to another time and place.