Visotzky / Zawodnik / Guy / Pauset / Alarcon – “Schizzi Di Orlando Furioso” – [Neos]

Cousin Mary   8/19/2014   A Library, CD

Orlando Furioso (mad Orlando) is an epic poem (38,736 lines divided into 46 cantos) completed by Ludovico Ariosto in 1532. This poem has inspired many works, including an opera by Vivaldi, and involves war, unrequited love that drives Orlando mad, and chivalry. The composer/musicians in this album have used the poem (cantos are noted) to inspire these tracks. Pieces include sax, oboe, English horn, bass, harpsichord, and organ arranged into 26 short sketches (“schizzi” (pronounce SKIT-ZEE) = “sketches” in Italian) of varying ensembles. Not easy listening, but interesting and original – short duration of tracks will make them more palatable. Well played, innovative, worth hearing.