Some fun listening here from two of the 20th century's greatest orchestral horn players, James Stagliano and Arthur Berv. These two giants of the horn play works from the baroque period and have a hell of a good time doing so!
Both of these soloists had long and prestigious careers. Arthur Berv, at the time of this recording, was well into his fifth decade of performing. Elevated to the principal horn chair at age 19 by none other than Toscanini, he never looked back and preceded to set a standard of excellence that successive hornists have aspired towards. For the most part, Berv's career centered around New York as he performed with every New York ensemble of consequence.
One of Berv's younger and most talented colleagues was James Stagliano, longtime principal of the Boston Symphony. Stagliano had horn playing in his genes as his uncle was recognized as a great orchestral player and teacher. Prior to becoming a member of the BSO, Stagliano played in Los Angeles and Cleveland where he developed a reputation of being able to play at an exceptionally high register. While in Boston, Stagliano recorded a number of recordings of which one of the best features the four horn concertos of Mozart with the Zimbler Sinfonietta. I have this recording and can transfer it if there is sufficient interest in the art of James Stagliano.
Stagliano and Berv play wonderfully together and I note that Berv plays the second parts. This is a compliment of the high regard which the older musician held the younger one. The orchestra is the "Kapp Sinfonietta" probably a New York pickup group and they are ably led by Richard Dunn of whom I know nothing. With a program of Telemann and Handel you can't go wrong you know.
So, enjoy some really great horn playing. I wish that I had the stereo lp instead of the mono edition but beggars cannot be choosers!
DOWNLOAD
