Paco Varoch: Album Review

Paco Varoch’s latest release, “Remembrances," is a delightful compilation of works arranged for piccolo and piano by eminent Spanish composers, Joaquín Rodrigo, Armando Blanquer, Óscar Esplá, Manuel Palau, Joan Gilber-Camins, Gaspar Cassadó, and Eduard Toldrá.

Each work is a treasure, unique and evocative. Piccolo player Paco Varoch and pianist Jesús Gómez Rodriguez make a first-class duo, with magnificently elegant interpretations of Spain’s foremost composers.  The Spanish Duo present an exquisite selection of works from Spain performed with the necessary Spanish flair and bravura.

You know you are in for a treat with the very first notes of the "Set Cancions Valencianes: I. Allegretto," by Rodrigo, when the piano and piccolo combine to establish a diaphanous, Spanish flavored melody.  The final movement "Tempo di Bolero Moderato," the two instruments build with unbridled energy into an uplifting piece that will surely have you tapping along.

The three Sonatina pieces by Blanquer are little gems that deserve to be paired with some beautiful visuals of sylvan scenes and waterfalls. Varoch’s glorious piccolo artistry and Rodriguez’ equal intricate proficiency make for sonic bliss.

The pieces by the other composers are also given their due and embody different moods; these compositions are equally worthy of the consummate musicianship with which they have been performed.  This is a dazzling and unique album.  You will certainly want to savor the rare instrumentation that is executed so impeccably by Varoch and Rodriguez.  I guarantee that you will want to revisit it repeatedly as it will certainly brighten your day.

It is a beautiful CD.  Highly recommended!

--Viviana Guzman

 

 

Listen on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/album/1wwjqr0YAKAtQ3oHHSzoe0?si=tGsB3SuV