Yolanda Kondonassis - Sky Music (LP)

Yolanda Kondonassis, a renowned harpist, presents a captivating collection of chamber music on her album "Sky Music," released in 1996 under the Telarc label. This 54-minute journey through the world of harp music features a blend of classical pieces and original compositions, showcasing Kondonassis's exceptional skill and versatility.

The album opens with a selection of preludes and impromptus, including the famous "Clair de Lune" from Debussy's "Suite Bergamasque," expertly transcribed for harp by Kondonassis herself. The centerpiece of the album is the complete "Suite for Harp, Op. 270" by Henriette Renié, a virtuosic work that spans seven movements, each showcasing a different facet of the harp's expressive range.

Kondonassis also shares her own compositions in the "Sky Music" suite, a six-movement work that demonstrates her talent as both a performer and a composer. The suite ranges from the straightforward and hymn-like to the delicate and rapid, offering a glimpse into Kondonassis's creative process.

The album concludes with a nocturne by Gabriel Fauré, a piece that highlights the harp's lyrical and expressive qualities. Throughout the album, Kondonassis's playing is characterized by its technical precision, musical sensitivity, and deep understanding of the harp's unique timbral palette. "Sky Music" is a testament to her artistry and a delight for any lover of chamber music.