Harp Concertos by Glière, Debussy, and Mozart – Claire Jones, William Bennett, ECO, Paul Watkins
Glière’s Harp Concerto, written in the 1930s, has always been a favourite among harp enthusiasts even though the work’s stylistic features are redolent of both the Viennese classical style and Russian romantic nationalism. The disc highlights the extraordinary talent of the young Official Harpist to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, Claire Jones.
Claire Jones has performed for members of the Royal family on more then seventy occasions and has recently performed a brand new Royal Commission by Patrick Hawes at Highgrove House with the Philharmonia Orchestra.
She also performs Debussy’s Deux Danses pour Harpe Chromatique and is joined by the renowned flautist William Bennett OBE to complete the disc with Mozart’s Concerto for Flute, Harp and Orchestra.
"...this enjoyable programme is a rare treat." ****
Jessica Duchen
Gramophone Recommends
Lively concertos from the harpist to the Prince of Wales.
Edward Greenfield
Performance **** Recording ******
"...Jones could hardly have wished for more graceful and sympathetic partners in the Mozart than William Bennett, the English Chamber Orchestra and paul Watkins, who radiate Classical elegance and sparkle throughout."
"...Finest of all are the two Debussy pieces, which Jones floats aloft on warm musical breezes, relishing their rippling iridescence with alluring subtlety. technical wizards John West and Mike Hatch provide exemplary, atmospheric sound."
Julian Haylock
