Description
Pianist Reinis Zarins performs works by Lucija Garuta with the Liepaja Symphony Orchestra and conductor Atvars Lakstigala.
Reviews
[Garuta's] ambitious, creative spirit can be heard in her ravishing Piano Concerto (1952), which reflects the mid-20th century trend of neo-classicism, while the solo part is reminiscent of Tchaikovsky's concertos — with extra glissandos. [..] Reinis Zarinš zips up and down the keyboard with aplomb while the Liepaja Symphony Orchestra create climactic contours. Garuta's dualistic style balances darkness and light, and traditional and contemporary melodic ideals. [..] Zarins mines the music to proffer the listener curious melodic gems. (4 stars) --Claire Jackson, BBC Music Magazine, February 2018
Recording of the month, Musicweb-International, December 2017):
[..] Reinis Zarinš's commanding technique and formidable musicianship are compelling, as is his enthusiastic advocacy of these richly rewarding scores. I was won over by his superb tonal shading and impressionistic colouring. This is what this music needs, and it was served accordingly. The Liepaja Symphony Orchestra under Atvars Lakstigala provides sensitive support in the Concerto. All of this comes in first class sound and balance. This constitutes a fitting tribute on the 40th anniversary of Lucija Garuta's death. --Stephen Greenbank
[..] Both works [Darzinš's Piano concerto No2 and Ivanovs' Symphony No.20] are ideally served by the deeply committed readings and polished ensemble of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, under the inspirational direction of Andris Poga. The pianist Reinis Zarinš not only relishes the Concerto's generous lyricism but injects plenty of personality into his playing. This is a rewarding release and earns my enthusiastic thumbs-up. --Stephen Greenbank, Musicweb-International, February 2018