Musique du Xxe Siecle Russe

Prokofiev, Sergey, Schnittke, Alfred, Stravinsky, Igor

Grot, Alexandra, Laul, Peter

HMN 911918

Moscow-born flutist Alexandra Grot made her recording debut when she was a mere 21 years old with this 2006 recital of twentieth century Russian works for flute and piano, and from start to finish she's flat out amazing. Sure, Grot has some of the characteristics one associates with young flutists: a breathtaking technique, a breathy tone, and an occasional tendency to show off. But she also has characteristics one associates only with mature artists: a sense of restraint, a sense of control, and a sense of proportion. No matter how much the music asks of her, Grot gives it exactly what it wants, no less and no more. She dances through Prokofiev's lighthearted Sonata, skips through Schnittke's slightly ironic Suite dans le style ancien, sings through Stravinsky's Pastorale, and wails on Denisov's Sonata. With the contribution of stalwart pianist Piotr Laul, this disc was not only a splendid introduction to a wonderful young musician, it was magnificent recital of spectacular works. Anyone who enjoys music for flute and piano, twentieth century Russian music, or simply just music will enjoy this disc, especially as captured in Harmonia Mundi's clean yet lush sound. • AllMusic Review by James Leonard [-]

CD x 1

Harmonia Mundi

19.05.2006

794881801022