Galliano/ Ivanovic/ Sokolov - Concertos

Internationally-renowned Serbian-Austrian classical accordionist Jovica Ivanovic has released his newest album - PIAZZOLLA & GALLIANO - with Navona Records. The program features concertos from Astor Piazzolla and Richard Galliano, both legends in their own rights. Recorded with the Ukrainian Chamber Orchestra, Ivanovic's performances bring these masterworks to life with persuasive passion. PIAZZOLLA & GALLIANO is the result of Ivanovic's partnership with violinist Valeriy Sokolov. With Ivanovic's capable hands on the accordion, Sokolov as concertmaster and Protasov as conductor of the chamber orchestra, the three set out to recreate the music of these two much revered composers. The album opens with Piazzolla's Aconcagua, a concerto for bandoneon, string orchestra, and percussion. The music bursts forth from the outset, full of the tantalizing excitement of Argentinian tango. Ivanovic's sensitive-yet-fiery style immediately sets him apart; the soloist glides effortlessly above the orchestra, lending a rich voice to the melody. It is not lost on Ivanovic that Piazzolla himself especially loved this piece, playing the bandoneon himself at performances in the 1980s. Ivanovic treats Aconcagua with the same loving care as it's composer did. And, now, thanks to state-of-the-art recording technology, we hear each note with sublime clarity. Galliano's Opale Concerto is a mix of Balkan, nostalgic Parisian, and American influences. From the outset, Opale is a pulse-quickening adventure; Ivanovic reveals the depths of his classical training by making every fiery note sound rounded and deliberate. As with Aconcagua, Ivanovic's performance of this piece makes clear that it is particularly dear to his own heart. The music of PIAZZOLLA & GALLIANO is perennially contemporary and exciting. Bridging cultures and generations, it speaks deeply to the human heart. Ivanovic's virtuosic performances are supple and thoughtful.