Review of From the Piano by Trio Concentus, Sonar, 1997

Italian Version

In music, transcription is the act to select the main melody of a piece (for orchestra or solo instrument) and transcribe it precisely for a different instrument or ensemble. This practice was used a lot in the past but during the ‘900 has been characterized by a new meaning being not only used to create a simple alternative version of the piece but a new total rewrite of it. In this sense a perfetc example is the music Pictures at an Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky arranged by Maurice Ravel, whose spirit blows gently benevolently on this cd.
The Trio Concentus, formed by three excellent soloists as Vincenzo Di Benedetto, Stefano Palamidessi and Arturo Tallini, moves in this direction creating a valuable recording where they rearrange Pictures at an Exhibition by Mussorgsky and three works by Ravel: Le Tombeau de Couperin, Pavane pour une Infante Defunte and Alborada del grazioso.
The Trio play these works without trying any orchestral effects, everything is based on the ability of the three guitars to cover (through the use of different tunings and of a bass guitar tuned a fifth below) covering the same musical extension of the piano that here is taken as reference. No shocking effects therefore, no special effects, no recording‘s tricks, but "only" the ability of three great musicians and a recording made with a great dynamic sound.
Those who is looking for special effects will be disappointed, those who are seeking the simple "nudity" of the music will be enchanted, the Trio Concentus shows a great example of virtuosity never end in itself, releasing a powerful and majestic sound. A great tribute to two composers whose music of the'900 owes so much. Listen to this disk, you will enjoy perfect moments of excitement and serenity.