Album Review: Carl Reinecke Sonata “Undine” with Agharahim Gouliyev and Vurghun Vakilov
Album Review: Carl Reinecke — Sonata “Undine” Op. 167 with Agharahim Gouliyuv (flute) & Vurghun Vakilov (piano)
Azerbaijani flutist Agharahim Gouliyuv and pianist Vurghun Vakilov offer a deeply expressive and compelling interpretation of Carl Reinecke’s Sonata “Undine” Op. 167 on their new album, bringing fresh life to one of the Romantic flute repertoire’s most beloved treasures.
Composed in 1882 and inspired by the German romantic tale of a water spirit who gains a soul through love, Reinecke’s Undine sonata has long been admired for its lyrical inventiveness, emotional breadth, and narrative character.
About the recording:
This album is dedicated to Carl Reinecke’s Sonata “Undine”, a cornerstone of the Romantic flute repertoire that is performed far less frequently than it deserves. Inspired by the Undine myth, the work presents a deeply psychological narrative, demanding not only technical control but sustained dramatic awareness and chamber dialogue. Our approach places emphasis on musical meaning, long-form phrasing and expressive honesty rather than overt virtuosity, aiming to explore the inner dramaturgy of the piece.
From the opening notes of the Allegro, Gouliyuv’s flute sings with a crystalline tone that perfectly captures the fluid imagery of Undine’s watery world. His phrasing is beautifully shaped, balancing warmth with an ethereal, almost mystical presence. Vakilov’s piano accompaniment is equally sensitive — agile yet grounded — weaving harmonic depth under Gouliyuv’s lines without ever overwhelming them. The sense of dialogue between flute and piano reflects Reinecke’s Romantic ideals and underscores the piece’s dramatic arc.
The Intermezzo: Allegretto vivace emerges with spirited charm. Here, the performers emphasize the dance-like qualities of the music, buoyed by rhythmic precision and a playful rapport that highlights their intuitive musical teamwork. The contrast between flute and piano textures is handled with finesse, bringing out the sonata’s characteristic blend of virtuosic sparkle and pastoral grace.
In the Andante tranquillo, Gouliyuv’s lyrical gifts come to the fore in earnest.
This movement, often described as the emotional heart of the sonata, is rendered with a tender introspection that invites the listener into the intimate emotional world of the characters. Vakilov’s restrained yet supportive harmonic palette creates a serene atmosphere, giving the flute’s long melodic lines room to breathe.
The Finale: Allegro molto agitato ed appassionato, quasi presto brings the journey to a thrilling close. Gouliyuv tackles the movement’s more tempestuous and technically demanding passages with confident agility, while Vakilov provides a whirlwind of dramatic energy in the piano part. The result is a finale that feels both passionate and nuanced, avoiding mere bravura for thoughtful musical storytelling.
Overall, this new recording by Gouliyuv and Vakilov is a deeply satisfying interpretation that honors the sonata’s Romantic roots while bringing individual artistry and expressive sensitivity to every phrase. Their collaboration showcases not only technical mastery but a shared musical vision that highlights the piece’s emotional depth and narrative richness. This release is a significant addition to the contemporary flute discography and will appeal to both seasoned Reinecke enthusiasts and newcomers alike. A must-hear for lovers of Romantic flute repertoire, chamber music aficionados, and anyone curious about a fresh, engaging interpretation of Reinecke’s Undine.