PLUMERI: CONCERTO FOR BASSOON & ORCH

Label: GMMC 735-2
Date: 1991
Tracks: 5

Original concert work scored for bassoon and orchestra, cast in lengthy single movement (19:33). Architecture offers slow "adagio" section, then increases in density and excitement ("Allegro moderato") before culmination in slower "adagio" finish. Bassoon may have spotlight but orchestra is integral to entire work, plays as partner. Plumeri illuminates bassoon in upper register (instead of more-ordinary lower), allows expressive quality of unique double-reed instrument to prevail. Composer also offers nuanced performance of Piotr Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 6 "Pathetique", with spirited second movement ("Allegro con grazia") and broadly-drawn final movement ("Finale-Adagio lamentoso-Andante") the standouts. Terry (Johnterryl) Plumeri conducts Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra.