Guitar Works And Arrangements
Naxos, 2023
8/10
Listen Guitar Works And Arrangements
A Virginia native who had much influence on American guitar music of the 19th century, Justin Holland’s work is interpreted by the inimitable Christopher Mallet across these 14 timeless tracks.
“Delta Kappa Epsilon, Grand March” opens the listen with a very warm and fluid display of meticulous guitar playing, and “'Tis the Last Rose of Summer” follows with a breezy sense of melody that’s heartfelt.
Further along, the intimate “Home Sweet Home” is full of pretty and harmonic progressions, while “Rochester Schottisch” moves swiftly with a rich and firm prowess that’s immediately memorable.
Arriving close to the end, “Variations on L. Mason's Nearer, My God, to Thee in E Major” emits a dreamy demeanor of reflective song craft, and “Carnival of Venice, Fantaisie” exits with a crisp tone and carefully manipulated strings for an exciting yet cautious finish.
This is the first major release of Holland’s work, and Mallet certainly does his legacy proud with much dexterity and elegance packed into the colorful arrangements.
Travels well with: JoAnn Falletta- Elfman-Hailstork Concertos; Florent Schmitt- La Tragédie de Salomé