Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical guitar with Norbert Kraft's "The Essential Norbert Kraft," a captivating collection of 29 tracks that showcase the artist's virtuosity and deep connection to the instrument. Released on May 29, 2025, under the Naxos Special Projects label, this album spans a generous 1 hour and 42 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that highlight Kraft's mastery and versatility.
The album is a testament to Norbert Kraft's enduring legacy, featuring a diverse range of pieces from timeless classics to lesser-known gems. From the hauntingly beautiful "Cavatina" from "The Deer Hunter" to the intricate "Recuerdos de la Alhambra," Kraft's interpretations are both technically impressive and deeply expressive. The inclusion of works by composers such as Sor, Chopin, and Piazzolla demonstrates Kraft's ability to traverse different musical styles with ease and elegance.
Recorded in April 2023, this album benefits from Kraft's meticulous production and engineering, ensuring a listening experience that is both immersive and authentic. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical guitar or a newcomer to the genre, "The Essential Norbert Kraft" offers a compelling journey through the world of classical music, showcasing the timeless appeal of the guitar and the artistry of one of its greatest modern practitioners.
2025 Naxos Records2025 Naxos Records
Tracks
The Deer Hunter: Cavatina (Arr. for Guitar by John Williams)Stanley Myers, Norbert Kraft
Recuerdos de la AlhambraFrancisco Tárrega, Norbert Kraft
V. Andaluza [Playera] [arr. P. Breiner for guitar and orchestra]Enrique Granados, Norbert Kraft, Razumovsky Sinfonia, Peter Breiner
No. 4 in E MinorHeitor Villa-Lobos, Norbert Kraft
No. 19 in A Major. AndanteFernando Sor, Norbert Kraft
II. AdagioJoaquín Rodrigo, Norbert Kraft, Northern Chamber Orchestra, Nicholas Ward
Julia florida (Julia blooming)Agustín Barrios Mangoré, Norbert Kraft
I. Mazurka-ChôrosHeitor Villa-Lobos, Norbert Kraft
No. 3, Tempo de Vals lento (Arr. P. Breiner for guitar and orchestra)Enrique Granados, Norbert Kraft, Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Peter Breiner
Rosita (Polka)Francisco Tárrega, Norbert Kraft
No. 17 in D Major, Op. 35Fernando Sor, Norbert Kraft
I. AllegrettoMario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Norbert Kraft, Northern Chamber Orchestra, Nicholas Ward
No. 1 in C Major. AndanteFernando Sor, Norbert Kraft
No. 3, Danza de la rosa (Arr. P. Breiner for guitar and orchestra)Enrique Granados, Norbert Kraft, Razumovsky Sinfonia, Peter Breiner
Leccion No. 29Dionisio Aguado, Norbert Kraft
II. Minuetto a Valtz: Allegro vivoNiccolò Paganini, Moshe Hammer, Norbert Kraft
Gran valsFrancisco Tárrega, Norbert Kraft
No. 6, Quasi ad libitum (Arr. P. Breiner for guitar and orchestra)Enrique Granados, Norbert Kraft, Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, Peter Breiner