Great Works for Flute & Orchestra

Sharon Bezaly, a virtuoso flutist renowned for her technical prowess and expressive depth, presents a captivating collection of flute concertos and orchestral works in "Great Works for Flute & Orchestra." Released on BIS Records in 2013, this album is a testament to Bezaly's artistry, featuring a blend of classical masterpieces and lesser-known gems that span a little over an hour and nine minutes of exquisite music.

The album opens with Jacques Ibert's Flute Concerto, FS 119, showcasing Bezaly's ability to navigate the piece's intricate melodies and rhythmic complexities with ease. The program continues with Gabriel Fauré's Poème, a lyrical and introspective work that highlights the flutist's expressive range. Bezaly then takes on the challenging Flute Concerto in D Major, Op. 283, by Carl Reinecke, demonstrating her mastery of the instrument through its three distinct movements.

The album also features works by less familiar composers, such as the Flute Concertino, Op. 107, by Cecil Chaminade, and the Largo and Allegro in D Major, arranged by Ewald Sauter for flute and strings. These pieces offer a refreshing contrast to the more well-known concertos and provide a glimpse into the diverse repertoire available for the flute.

Bezaly's interpretation of Francis Poulenc's Flute Sonata, FP 164, is another highlight of the album. Arranged for flute and orchestra by Leonard Berkeley, the sonata's three movements showcase the flutist's dynamic range and technical skill. The album concludes with an exhilarating arrangement of Rimsky-Korsakov's "Flight of the Bumblebee" from the opera "Tale of Tsar Saltan," arranged by Kalevi Aho for flute and orchestra. Bezaly's performance of this iconic piece is a tour de force, showcasing her incredible speed and precision.

Throughout the album, Bezaly is accompanied by the Malmö Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Marc Soustrot, who provide a rich and supportive backdrop for her performances. The recording quality is excellent, capturing the full range of the flute's timbre and the orchestra's nuances.

"Great Works for Flute & Orchestra" is a showcase of Sharon Bezaly's extraordinary talent and versatility as a flutist. Her performances are marked by a deep understanding of the music, technical brilliance, and a keen sense of musicality. This album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and anyone looking to discover the beauty and power of the flute in orchestral settings.