Dive into the rich tapestry of Spanish and Catalan music with Roberto Gerhard's "Soirées De Barcelone," a captivating album released in 2012. This collection, spanning over an hour, showcases Gerhard's mastery of blending traditional Spanish rhythms with modern classical techniques. Born in Valls, Catalonia, Gerhard's unique heritage—with a German-Swiss father and Spanish mother—shines through in his compositions, offering a distinctive fusion of cultural influences.
The album opens with "Alegrías," a suite of lively and energetic pieces inspired by the vibrant flamenco tradition, expertly arranged for two pianos. Following this, "Soirées De Barcelone" presents four evocative piano pieces that capture the essence of Barcelona's nights, from the playful "Allegretto Placido" to the powerful "Sostenuto Molto Energico E Pesante."
Gerhard's "Three Impromptus" provide a contrast with their introspective and expressive nature, each movement offering a different mood and tempo. The album concludes with "Pandora," a five-movement suite that tells a mythological tale through music, from the quest for the box to the revelry of "Pandora's Carnival" and the solemn "Ode To Power."
"Soirées De Barcelone" is a testament to Roberto Gerhard's innovative spirit and his deep connection to his cultural roots. Whether you're a fan of classical music, flamenco, or simply appreciate beautifully crafted compositions, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2012 Largo2012 Largo
Tracks
Alegrías: Preámbulo (Version for 2 Pianos)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson
Alegrías: Jácara (Danza Del Abánico) (Version for 2 Pianos)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson
Alegrías: Farruca (Version for 2 Pianos)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson
Alegrías: Jaleo (Version for 2 Pianos)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson
Dos Apunts: (A)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball
Dos Apunts: (B)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball
Soirées De Barcelone: No.1. Allegretto Placido (Version for Piano)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball
Soirées De Barcelone: No.2. Sostenuto Molto Energico E Pesante (Version for Piano)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball
Soirées De Barcelone: No.3. Sardana (Version for Piano)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball
Soirées De Barcelone: No.4. Fandanguillo (Version for Piano)Roberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball
Three Impromptus: No.1. GiochevoleRoberto Gerhard, Julian Jacobson
Three Impromptus: No.2. TeneramenteRoberto Gerhard, Julian Jacobson
Three Impromptus: No.3. Con ImpetoRoberto Gerhard, Julian Jacobson
Pandora: No.1. The QuestRoberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson, Richard Benjafield
Pandora: No.2. The Youth And PsycheRoberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson, Richard Benjafield
Pandora - N0.3 Pandora's CarnivalRoberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson, Richard Benjafield
Pandora - No.4A The Monsters' DrillRoberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson, Richard Benjafield
Pandora: No.4B. Ode To PowerRoberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson, Richard Benjafield
Pandora: No.5. The MothersRoberto Gerhard, Andrew Ball, Julian Jacobson, Richard Benjafield