Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco: Quintet for Guitar and String Quartet, Op. 143
Antonio Vivaldi: Concerto in D Major, RV93 (arr. Emilio Pujol/ed. Sharon Isbin)
Joaquin Turina: La oracion del torero for string quartet, Op. 34
Luigi Boccherini: Quintet for Guitar and String Quartet in D Major, G.448

The combination of string quartet and classical guitar works so well that I'm surprised it hasn't been done more often. The variety of the pieces on offer here also adds to the appeal of this new recording featuring multi-award winning guitarist Sharon Isbin and the Pacifica Quartet. The earnest intricacies of the Quintet by Castelnuovo-Tedesco commissioned by Andres Segovia, the bright sparkle of the Vivaldi, the warm Spanish character of the Turina and the grace and nobility of Boccherini's Quintet, all make for a continuously interesting program.

The Concerto in D Major, RV93 by Antonio Vivaldi is arguably one of his most beloved compositions. Originally scored for the lute, this arrangement for guitar lends it a warmer, gentler sound. And I love the way Sharon Isbin occasionally alters the sound of her instrument during the beautiful slow movement. Originally written for a group of mandolin-like instruments, Joaquin Turina's La oracion del torero for string quartet, Op. 34 (The Bullfighter's Prayer) was eventually reimagined and transcribed for various chamber ensembles in order to extend it's stage life. It's a short piece that nonetheless captures the nervous anxiety of a matador and his devout plea to God for protection before jousting with a bull.

For those of you who care for certain details, Sharon Isbin plays an Antonius Mueller guitar equipped with Savarez strings. All in all this makes for an unconventional and yet satisfying hour of fine Mediterranean inspired music. Sit down with a fine Italian or robust Spanish wine and enjoy!