Characterized by a unique style of instrumentation and experimentation with formality, Virtuosity is the colourful expression of composer John Robertson's symphonic creativity. The album combines a clarinet and a trumpet concerto, a symphony, and an orchestral fantasy based on a Maori love story...

If you're a lover of traditional classical music then there's plenty to discover and enjoy on John Robertson's Virtuosity. This is classical music for those that truly appreciate the genre and are well versed in some of histories most notable composers. Every now and then you'll catch the spirit of a past master. 'Symphony #3 - II Vivace', for example, has flashes of Prokofiev and Holst. Elsewhere, tracks like 'Symphony #3 - I Andante' have a ring of classic epic Hollywood score to them.

This is pretty much a perfect and varied collection of emotive pieces. If you're unfamiliar with Robertson's work this is an ideal introduction to his style. If you enjoy what you hear here, then you should also pick up his previous release, Symphony No.1.

10

Darren Rea