David Starobin

W.T. Matiegka's Six Sonatas, Op. 31

Bridge, 2022

8/10

Listen to W.T. Matiegka's Six Sonatas, Op. 31

The esteemed guitarist David Starobin interprets Wenzel Thomas Matiegka’s Six Sonatas, Op. 31 here, and it’s an expressive and articulate venture where his classical guitar skills are quite luminous on this final studio recording from the 70 year old.

“Sonata No. 1 In C Major, Op. 31, No. 1” opens the listen with 3 segments that flows with incredible dexterity, as Starobin manipulates the stings with awe inspiring melodies and much warmth, and “Sonata No. 2 In A Minor, Op. 31, No. 2” follows with both intimacy and adventurousness populating the precise playing.

The middle tracks, “Sonata No. 3 In G Major, Op. 31, No. 3” and “Sonata No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 31, No. 4”, continue with a similar approach of a dancing spirit that’s highly technical and quite captivating in its inimitable prowess.

The final track, “Sonata No. 6 In B Minor, Op. 31, No. 6”, exits with some of the most firm playing that showcases the lifetime of experience that Starobin possesses with his craft.

It’s certainly no surprise that Starobin has been Grammy nominated 4 times, and this delivery is artistic and profound and puts a very fitting exclamation point on a career that few will ever parallel.

Travels well with: Stephen Jaffe- The Music Of Stephen Jaffe, Vol. 4; George Walker- Five Piano Sonatas