Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical guitar with John C. Williams' "Classic Williams -- Romance of the Guitar." Released in 1984, this timeless album showcases the virtuosity and artistry of one of the most renowned classical guitarists of our time. With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this collection of 19 tracks is a testament to Williams' mastery of the instrument and his ability to breathe new life into both classic and contemporary pieces.
The album opens with a breathtaking arrangement of "Romance" by traditional composers, arranged by Williams himself for guitar and orchestra. This sets the tone for the rest of the album, which features a diverse range of compositions, from the hauntingly beautiful "Pavane, Op. 50" to the lively and energetic "Asturias" from Suite Española No. 1. Each track is a showcase of Williams' technical prowess and his deep understanding of the music, making for an engaging and captivating listening experience.
Throughout the album, Williams is accompanied by various orchestras conducted by William Goodchild, adding depth and richness to the guitar arrangements. The inclusion of both solo and ensemble pieces highlights Williams' versatility as a musician and his ability to adapt to different musical settings.
"Classic Williams -- Romance of the Guitar" is not just a collection of songs, but a journey through the world of classical guitar music. From the delicate and intricate "Canción de Cuna" to the powerful and dramatic "Concierto de Aranjuez," each track tells a story and transports the listener to a different time and place. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
(P) 1984, 1988, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2000 SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT
Tracks
Romance (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar & Orchestra)Traditional, John C. Williams, William Goodchild, String Orchestra
Pavane, Op. 50 (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar & Orchestra)Gabriel Fauré, John C. Williams, William Goodchild, BBC Concert Orchestra
SunburstAndrew York, John C. Williams
Una Limosna por el Amor de Dios "El Ultimo Canto"Agustín Barrios Mangoré, John C. Williams
Suite Española No. 1, Op. 47: No. 5, Asturias (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar) - ExcerptIsaac Albéniz, John C. Williams
3 Gymnopédies: No. 3, Lent et grave (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar & Orchestra)Erik Satie, John C. Williams, William Goodchild, String Orchestra
El Cóndor Pasa (Arr. J. Morel for Guitar)Traditional, Daniel Alomía Robles, John C. Williams
CavatinaStanley Myers, John C. Williams, String Orchestra
Las 4 Estaciones Porteñas: II. Verano Porteño (Arr. B. Benitez)Astor Piazzolla, John C. Williams
Scherzino Mexicano (Arr. A. Díaz for Guitar)Manuel Ponce, John C. Williams
Canción de CunaAgustín Barrios Mangoré, John C. Williams
4 Valses Venezolanos: No. 3, Natalia "Vals Criollo"Antonio Lauro, John C. Williams
La Vida Breve: Danza española No. 1 (Arr. E. Pujol for 2 Guitars)Manuel de Falla, John C. Williams, Timothy Kain
Planxty Madame Maxwell (Arr. Gerald Garcia for 2 Guitars)Turlough O'Carolan, John C. Williams, Timothy Kain
3 Epitafios: No. 3 in D Minor (Arr. for Guitar) - ExcerptMikis Theodorakis, John C. Williams
Suite in E Major, BWV 1006a: I. Prélude (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar)Johann Sebastian Bach, John C. Williams
Keyboard Sonata in E Major, K. 380 (Arr. J. Williams for Guitar)Domenico Scarlatti, John C. Williams
Trio Sonata in C Major, RV 82: III. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, John C. Williams, János Rolla, Liszt Ferenc Kamarazenekar
Concierto de Aranjuez: II. AdagioJoaquín Rodrigo, John C. Williams, Christine Pendrill, Louis Frémaux, Philharmonia Orchestra