Piazzolla

Scintillating, sexy, electric, elegant, sensuous, risky, robust, and just plain exciting and entertaining–those are some of the words that describe Piazzolla, a surprising recording from Les Violons du Roy, the Quebec-based period-performance orchestra usually praised for its first-rate Bach, Handel, and Mozart.

Now add Piazzolla to the list of this virtuoso ensemble’s repertoire–and “virtuoso” not only describes the orchestra’s amazing facility but particularly the artistry of violin soloist Pascale Giguère, long-time member of the group who here shines with big-star brilliance. Her alternately fluid, fanciful, fiery, and always technically assured first movement (Verano/Summer) of the opening Four Seasons of Buenos Aires tells you all you need to know regarding the high energy and artistic level of what’s to come.

There’s plenty more to savor here, ranging from slow and seductive tangos to, well, fast and seductive tangos–and the playing is world-class throughout. Vibrant sound that captures the grit and fiber and sophisticated swagger of this infectious music completes an ideally entertaining– and did I say surprising? – performance.
– David Vernier

Les Violons du Roy
Jean-Marie Zeitouni – Conductor
Pascale Giguère – Violin
Benoit Loiselle – Cello