In a career spanning 60 years, Amelia Freedman brought together some of the world's finest musicians to perform the works of Maurice Ravel with unwavering dedication. This latest album, released shortly after her passing in July, serves as a poignant farewell to her artistic vision and an ode to the ensemble's enduring legacy.
The Nash Ensemble's all-Ravel recording is a masterclass in nuance, capturing the composer's penchant for evocative textures and moods that veer from luscious warmth to stark menace. Pianists Alasdair Beatson and Simon Crawford-Phillips deliver performances of remarkable polish, their partnership on 'La Valse' - Ravel's orchestral masterpiece reimagined as a two-piano arrangement - exuding an air of sophistication as they navigate the intricate dance-like rhythms and virtuosic glissandos.
The group's smaller chamber works fare just as well, with standout performances in 'Introduction and Allegro', a 1905 composition commissioned by harp manufacturer, Harps Richwood. Here, Lucy Wakeford's harp singing brings a silvery sheen to the ensemble's intricate arrangements, which skillfully weave together disparate instrumental timbres to create an ever-changing kaleidoscope of sound.
The Nash Ensemble's Ravel album is an exercise in meticulous attention to detail and textural exploration, one that uncovers the composer's enduring fascination with light and shadow. In their vibrant rendition of the Piano Trio, for instance, each musician brings a distinct voice to the party, generating a symphony of tone colours that oscillate from delicate intimacy to exuberant excitement.
Ultimately, this album serves as a fitting tribute to Amelia Freedman's unwavering commitment to the art of chamber music and her profound influence on generations of musicians. As the Nash Ensemble continues to navigate Ravel's intricate world of soundscapes, their performances will undoubtedly continue to inspire listeners with their dazzling light and intriguing shade.
The Nash Ensemble's all-Ravel recording is a masterclass in nuance, capturing the composer's penchant for evocative textures and moods that veer from luscious warmth to stark menace. Pianists Alasdair Beatson and Simon Crawford-Phillips deliver performances of remarkable polish, their partnership on 'La Valse' - Ravel's orchestral masterpiece reimagined as a two-piano arrangement - exuding an air of sophistication as they navigate the intricate dance-like rhythms and virtuosic glissandos.
The group's smaller chamber works fare just as well, with standout performances in 'Introduction and Allegro', a 1905 composition commissioned by harp manufacturer, Harps Richwood. Here, Lucy Wakeford's harp singing brings a silvery sheen to the ensemble's intricate arrangements, which skillfully weave together disparate instrumental timbres to create an ever-changing kaleidoscope of sound.
The Nash Ensemble's Ravel album is an exercise in meticulous attention to detail and textural exploration, one that uncovers the composer's enduring fascination with light and shadow. In their vibrant rendition of the Piano Trio, for instance, each musician brings a distinct voice to the party, generating a symphony of tone colours that oscillate from delicate intimacy to exuberant excitement.
Ultimately, this album serves as a fitting tribute to Amelia Freedman's unwavering commitment to the art of chamber music and her profound influence on generations of musicians. As the Nash Ensemble continues to navigate Ravel's intricate world of soundscapes, their performances will undoubtedly continue to inspire listeners with their dazzling light and intriguing shade.
she must have been super dedicated to music and stuff. like how much practice does it take to play piano for 60 yrs? 
also what's this harp thingy Lucy Wakeford is singing about? sounds pretty 
! Amelia Freedman was a total legend, and it's so cool they're still putting out music that does her legacy justice. I mean, Alasdair Beatson & Simon Crawford-Phillips are absolute wizards on piano - their harmonies together give me chills 
. And Lucy Wakeford's harp singing is like butter for my soul 
. The way the ensemble weaves all these different instruments together to create this gorgeous texture... it's just perfection. It feels like Amelia was right there with them, guiding them through Ravel's world of light & shadow 
. I'm gonna have to give this album multiple listens just to soak up all the vibes 
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They've done such an amazing job capturing the essence of Maurice Ravel's music! Alasdair Beatson & Simon Crawford-Phillips on piano are like a dream team 
Their chemistry is electric, and they bring so much nuance to each piece. The way they've woven together different instruments to create this kaleidoscope of sound is pure magic 
And Lucy Wakeford's harp singing in 'Introduction and Allegro' is giving me all the feels 
This album is a must-listen for anyone who loves classical music, trust me! #RavelReimagined #NashEnsemble #ClassicalMusicLovers #FaveAlbums
! The way they captured Ravel's textures and moods is just mind-blowing 
And Lucy Wakeford's harp singing in 'Introduction and Allegro' is so ethereal it's like you're transported to another world 
The attention to detail and exploration of textural sounds is just wow, I'm literally speechless 
they really nailed that Ravel vibe, like they're speaking the language of angels or something... the way Alasdair & Simon blend on 'La Valse' is pure magic 
I mean, Amelia Freedman must've been an incredible person if her legacy lives on through music like this... can't wait for more from the Nash Ensemble 