Yolanda Kondonassis presents a beautifully curated collection of classical pieces in "Music for a Perfect Day: Wedding Music for Harp." Released in 2002 on the Telarc label, this chamber music album spans a soothing 71 minutes, featuring 20 tracks that have been thoughtfully arranged for the harp. Kondonassis, known for her exquisite musicianship, brings a fresh perspective to timeless compositions, making this album a delightful blend of the familiar and the innovative.
The album includes iconic works such as Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," Debussy's "Clair de lune," and Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons," all masterfully transcribed for the harp. Kondonassis' arrangements breathe new life into these classics, showcasing the harp's versatility and elegance. Each piece has been carefully selected to complement the contemporary wedding ceremony, with a helpful guide suggesting the ideal placement of each selection within the event.
From the serene "Rêverie" by Debussy to the lively "Allegro" from Vivaldi's "Spring," the album offers a diverse range of moods and tempos. Whether it's the intimate "Quietude" from "5 Preludes for Harp Alone" or the majestic "Passacaille" from Handel's "Suite No. 7," Kondonassis' performances are marked by precision, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of the music.
"Music for a Perfect Day" is not just a collection of beautiful harp music; it's a thoughtful compilation designed to enhance the wedding experience. The album's seamless flow and varied selections make it a perfect backdrop for one of life's most significant celebrations. Yolanda Kondonassis' artistry shines through in every note, making this album a cherished addition to any classical music lover's collection.
Cantata, BWV 147: X. Choral "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" (Arr. Y. Kondonassis)Johann Sebastian Bach, Yolanda Kondonassis
Rêverie, L. 68 (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Claude Debussy, Yolanda Kondonassis
3 Gymnopédies: No. 1 in D Major (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Erik Satie, Yolanda Kondonassis
Suite bergamasque, L. 75: III. Clair de lune (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Claude Debussy, Yolanda Kondonassis
5 Preludes for Harp Alone: No. 2, QuietudeCarlos Salzedo, Yolanda Kondonassis
Petite suite, L. 65: I. En bateau (On the Boat) [Transcr. Y. Kondonassis]Claude Debussy, Yolanda Kondonassis
Canon & Gigue in D Major, P. 37: I. Canon (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Johann Pachelbel, Yolanda Kondonassis
Violin Sonata No. 2 in A Minor, BWV 1003: III. Andante (Arr. Y. Kondonassis)Johann Sebastian Bach, Yolanda Kondonassis
Cantata, BWV 156: I. Sinfonia (Arioso) [Transcr. Y. Kondonassis]Johann Sebastian Bach, Yolanda Kondonassis
The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Minor, Op. 8 No. 4, RV 297 "Winter": II. Largo (Arr. Y. Kondonassis & R. Werthen)Antonio Vivaldi, Yolanda Kondonassis, Rudolf Werthen, I Fiamminghi (The Orchestra of Flanders)
Ave Maria, CG 89a (After J.S. Bach) [Arr. Y. Kondonassis]Charles Gounod, Johann Sebastian Bach, Yolanda Kondonassis
Songs Without Words, Book 6, Op. 67: 1. Meditation, MWV U 180 (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Felix Mendelssohn, Yolanda Kondonassis
3 Mélodies, Op. 7: No. 1, Après un rêve (Arr. Y. Kondonassis)Gabriel Fauré, Yolanda Kondonassis
2 Arabesques, L. 66: No. 1, Andante con moto (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Claude Debussy, Yolanda Kondonassis
The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in E Major, Op. 8 No. 1, RV 269 "Spring": I. Allegro (Arr. Y. Kondonassis & R. Werthen)Antonio Vivaldi, Yolanda Kondonassis, Rudolf Werthen, I Fiamminghi (The Orchestra of Flanders)
Fantasia No. 1 in D Major, TWV 33:1 (Excerpt) [Arr. Y. Kondonassis]Georg Philipp Telemann, Yolanda Kondonassis
Lute Suite in E Minor, BWV 996: V. Bourrée (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Johann Sebastian Bach, Yolanda Kondonassis
Sonata in B Minor, L. 449: Sonata in B Minor, L. 449 (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)Domenico Scarlatti, Yolanda Kondonassis
Suite No. 7 in G Minor, HWV 432: VI. Passacaille (Transcr. Y. Kondonassis)George Frideric Handel, Yolanda Kondonassis
The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Major, Op. 8 No. 3, RV 293 "Autumn": III. Allegro (Arr. Y. Kondonassis & R. Werthen)Antonio Vivaldi, Yolanda Kondonassis, Rudolf Werthen, I Fiamminghi (The Orchestra of Flanders)