JoAnn Falletta is the conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. She is also a talented guitarist in her own right. A few years ago, she organized The JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Concerto Competition. Year by year, it has grown in popularity and drawn more talented artists to compete. Diane and I attended the Final Competition last night and loved the wonderful music. Nermanja Ostojic from Serbia played Mario Casteinuovo-Tedesco’s “Concerto in D Major, Opus 9.” Artyom Dervoed from Russia played Rodrigo’s “Concierto de Aranjuez.” Thomas Viloteau from France played Rodrigo’s “Fantasia para un Gentilhombre.” Diane and I voted for Thomas Viloteau, but he came in Third Place. Artyom Dervoed won First Place. If you’re interested in guitar music, this is an event you should consider attending in 2012. For more information, click here.
Sounds great! I wonder how many performances of Rodrigo’s “Concierto de Aranjuez.” you’ll hear?
I’ve heard Rodrigo’s “Concierto de Aranjuez” about a 100 times over the years, Rick. Art Scott proposed that some “war horses” in the classical competitions be “retired” and I agree.
I have become more and more fond of classical guitar music in the last year since hearing Sharon–can’t remember her last name. The Buffalo Symphony got reviewed in the NYT today.
You’re thinking of Sharon Isbin, Patti. Great guitar player! I have all her CDs.
I understand the idea to retire some of the war horses, but they are what draw many “amateur appreciators” into it. I’ve heard Rodrigo’s “Concierto de Aranjuez.” that many times or more, but I always enjoy it.
I enjoy Rodrigo’s music, Rick. Are you collecting the Rodrigo series CDs Naxos is putting out?
It’s no LouieFest, but it’s not bad.
I’m a fan of classical guitar music, Bob, and what I heard this week from the talented contestants made my ears soar with delight!
I like it, too. I’m amazed they can dance their fingers all over the fretboard and the frets aren’t marked the way they are on a standard guitar. Any photos of your ears soaring?
I’ll see if I can get Patrick to photograph my soaring ears, Bob. We’ve been lucky to hear several excellent guitar players in the past couple of years: Sharon Isbin, Jason Vieaux, and David Russell.