Bach Flute Sonatas / Joshua Smith – Review

Bach: Flute Sonatas

DE 3402

013491340227

CoolCleveland.com, January 6, 2010

Many times, when listening to the luscious notes produced by flutist Joshua Smith, I’ve likened him to the Pied Piper of legend. And why not? Those sensuous, silken, seductive sounds would entice anyone to follow along. Not just children, but of course, they’d most likely be just as entranced as adults would be. This CD is just more proof of that statement – as if any was needed.

Whether playing by himself, collaborating with the renowned harpsichordist Jory Vinikour or as part of the world-class Cleveland Orchestra, where he’s principal flute, Mr. Smith’s every note demonstrates intelligence, care and a superb musicality. This CD (from Delos) features four sonatas for flute and harpsichord plus one partita for solo flute – all from the pen of the prodigious Johann Sebastian Bach, or at least mostly. There is some reason to believe that perhaps a son or two might have contributed a few notes here and there.

This is a wonderfully uplifting CD. I daresay it would be a marvelous recuperative agent for stressful commutes or other tension-producing events in your life. Just listening to this happy and joyous music will lift you above the mundane rough-edged everyday happenings and smooth your way to peacefulness.

There is a special joy to be found when two equals engage in a complementary endeavor such as this one. They chase each other up and down the scales and in and around the complicated melodies in such a way that you’ll want to participate, too. They make it sound SO easy, but of course, it’s entirely the opposite.
Although vastly different from each other, the four sonatas are nonetheless sprightly and capricious in nature, but the Partita (in A minor, BWV 1013) will make you stop whatever you’re doing and just listen for the sheer beauty of what you’re hearing. Be sure to listen for the little ritards here and there which take it to a new level of expression. Mr. Smith is noted among other musicians for his special attention to dynamics as well as his innate lyricism. This CD will demonstrate those qualities plus myriad others. Enjoy them all.

(Added local note: The CD was recorded at Cleveland’s First Baptist Church on Fairmount Boulevard.)

http://www.coolcleveland.com/index.php/Newsletter/Kelly010610

21 January 2010 | Reviews | Comments