Ponce: Guitar Sonatas (The Segovia Collection, Vol. 6)

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com essential recording
Manuel Ponce was one of the 20th century's finest composers of guitar music as well as a close friend of Segovia's. His sonatas are excellent pieces that achieved their well-earned popularity largely thanks to Segovia's advocacy. He's particularly adept in the slow movements, in which he creates that sustained, singing line so difficult to achieve on the guitar. To listen to these performances is to be present at the birth of a grand tradition, and Segovia plays the music with all the love and enthusiasm you could possibly ask for. --David Hurwitz

The Segovia Collection, Vol. 6: Manuel Ponce Sonatas, Music, Manuel Ponce, Andrés Segovia, Chamber, Classical, Classical Artists, Classical Guitar, Classical Music, Guitar Solo, Solo Instrumental
Ponce: Guitar Sonatas
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Heartfelt and immaculate playing
  • EL MEJOR CD DE LA OBRA DE PONCE PARA GUITARRA!!!
  • A little mechanical, but worth a listen
  • Raising the Standards for Classical Guitar
  • Virtuosity and Musicianship at its highest
Ponce: Guitar Sonatas
Jason Vieaux
Manufacturer: Azica
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00006YXAQ
Release Date: 2002-10-22

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Heartfelt and immaculate playing.......2006-10-26

When I first started listening to classical guitar, Julian Bream was the one artist who, if he released a new recording, I would buy it without hesitation. With Bream in retirement, my current "must buy" artist is Jason Vieaux. It's difficult to choose between his many fine recordings, but a particular favorite of mine is his 2001 release of Mexican composer Manuel Ponce's guitar sonatas. Vieaux's performances are warm, colorful, and vibrant. His ability to sing a line is second to none. And don't be put off by the idea of a CD entirely devoted to one composer. Two of Ponce's guitar sonatas are homages to other composers--Fernando Sor and Franz Schubert--and Ponce wrote the sonatas in the style of these composers. In fact, he was so successful at composing in other styles that some of his music in the baroque style was for many years misattributed to 18th century composers.

By the way, I'm puzzled by the reviewer who called this recording "a little mechanical." Vieaux is far removed from the many guitarists who are more marksmen than musicians. With all the positive reviews posted about this recording, it's odd that Amazon spotlights a tepid review that overlooks the lyricism so obvious in Vieaux's playing.

In sum, excellent music beautifully played.

5 out of 5 stars EL MEJOR CD DE LA OBRA DE PONCE PARA GUITARRA!!!.......2006-03-12

Por sonido, calidad y personalidad interpretativa - en que se puede reconocer además una profunda afinidad con el compositor y un sólido análisis de la obras, considero que Jason Vieux nos entrega la mejor grabación que se ha realziado sobre la obra para guitarra sola de Ponce. En lo personal me gustó mucho particularmente la sonata nro 3, interpretada con mucho lirismo y fuerza, además técnica y musicalmente perfecta.

3 out of 5 stars A little mechanical, but worth a listen.......2004-09-12

Mr. Vieaux is a great guitarist, especially on the technical end, but he seems to miss some of the expression, nuance and drama that some other players have gotten from these Sonatas (Segovia and Hoppstock especially), and his tempos tend to be on the slow side. But the CD is worth it for the Sonata Classica alone, since there aren't many other recordings of it, and Segovia's was a bit flawed..
Personally, I'd like to hear Vieaux record Eric Sessler's Sonata, since it was written for him.

5 out of 5 stars Raising the Standards for Classical Guitar.......2003-06-16

What an outstanding performance Vieaux has given here! Like my fellow reviewer of this disc, I've heard him play live several times, and his musicianship is on a level that I have not heard matched in the guitar world (except maybe by David Russell). This recording exhibits a wide range of tone colors and stunning musical phrasing. Perhaps the finest aspect of Vieaux's musicality is that he doesn't give away the climax of the piece until it truly is reached - the Sonata Romantica is a great example of this. The subtlety and power of his musicality is something found more in the realm of concert piano, and Jason may be raising the musical standards of the guitar in general. Bravo! One of the finest recordings of classical music I've heard!

5 out of 5 stars Virtuosity and Musicianship at its highest.......2002-12-08

In the world of the classical guitar, there are notable luminaries whose recordings have become almost "de rigeur" for the the guitar afficionado. It's time to add Jason Vieaux's name to the list!

Vieaux's deep understanding of each piece is communicated almost effortlessly (deceivingly so) with a pallet of sonorities that are almost unbelievable. There are suggestions of a solo oboe or flute, the jangle of a harpsichord, and the whispering of an Aeolian harp throughout the CD. Vieaux's concept of phrasing and structure is flawless, and the sound of the CD puts you up-close-and-personal, yet is always natural.

Having had the pleasure of hearing and seeing him perform in person, I can confidently say that this CD is an accurate portrayal of a magnificent young artist whose career will no doubt break new ground for the genre. You won't regret purchasing this CD!
Ponce: Variations & Sonatas
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Technically speaking...
  • Great Album
  • One of the best Ponce interpreters
Ponce: Variations & Sonatas

Manufacturer: Signum
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GuitarGuitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000508ZJ
Release Date: 2000-10-17

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Technically speaking..........2006-11-11

My original review was less than fair to the artist, so here goes a revision. Mr. Hoppstock has piles of technique, but he is a also a very musical player, so let's give him credit.

We can also give him full credit for exploring manuscript versions of these pieces which reveal some interesting alternatives. But I have to seriously question whether the simple existence of a manuscript indicates that this is the composer's FINAL intention. Segovia made some changes. The success or failure of these changes must be based on more than supposed compositorial intention. On the whole, I think that Segovia's musical instincts were extremely good.

NB: Amazon's track listing for this recording is incorrect: the first piece is the Sonatina meridional, then the urtext version of the Theme, Variations and Finale, then eight preludes, followed by the Sonata III and the Folias variations. Hoppstock only plays fourteen of the twenty variations. This is another problem, of course. Much though I am not fond of Williams' mannered version, he at least includes all the variations. No matter which you choose to leave out, some listeners at least will be saying "but that was my favourite one!"

5 out of 5 stars Great Album.......2004-09-12

An excellend interpretation of Ponce's works.Very interesting is that he plays from the manuscript the Sonatina Meridional and Theme varie and Finale which reveals the original Ponce's masterpieces.Great understanding of the music,flawless technique....
What distinguishes him in this recording, besides his virtuosity, is his innate musical sensitivity and a superb sense of rhythm...

4 out of 5 stars One of the best Ponce interpreters.......2003-03-19

Hoppstock is one of Ponce's best interpreters, providing contrasts in speed, phrasing, and tone that almost all other guitarists seem to miss. It doesn't hurt that he's got a very high level of technique at his disposal. He's also used the manuscripts of these pieces rather than Segovia's editions, in some cases (Theme Varie) fundamentally changing the piece back to its' intentions. The recording IS very closely miked, however, so if a few extraneous noises bother you go elsewhere.
The Segovia Collection, Vol. 6: Manuel Ponce Sonatas
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Two Masters of the Guitar
  • Ponce in my blood
  • PULCHRITUDINOUS PONCE
  • A Winning Combination!
The Segovia Collection, Vol. 6: Manuel Ponce Sonatas

Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002PGZ
Release Date: 1989-09-25

Tracks:

  1. Sonata Romantica: I. Allegro Moderato
  2. Sonata Romantica: II. Andante Espressivo
  3. Sonata Romantica: III. Allegretto Vivo-Piu Lento Espressivo
  4. Sonata Romantica: IV. Allegro Non Troppo E Serioso
  5. Sonata Clasica: I. Allegro
  6. Sonata Clasica: II. Andante
  7. Sonata Clasica: III. Menuet
  8. Sonata Clasica: IV. Allegro
  9. Sonata Mexicana: I. Allegro Moderato
  10. Sonata Mexicana: II. Andantino Affettuosos
  11. Sonata Mexicana: III. Intermezzo: Allegretto In Tempo Di Sereneta
  12. Sonata Mexicana: IV. Allegretto, Un Poco Vivace
  13. Cancion
  14. Cancion Y Paisage

Amazon.com essential recording

Manuel Ponce was one of the 20th century's finest composers of guitar music as well as a close friend of Segovia's. His sonatas are excellent pieces that achieved their well-earned popularity largely thanks to Segovia's advocacy. He's particularly adept in the slow movements, in which he creates that sustained, singing line so difficult to achieve on the guitar. To listen to these performances is to be present at the birth of a grand tradition, and Segovia plays the music with all the love and enthusiasm you could possibly ask for. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Two Masters of the Guitar.......2004-01-01

The relationship between Segovia and Ponce was similar to the one between von Karajan and Richard Strauss or Samuel Barber and John Browning or even Bach and Glenn Gould - kindred souls interpreting music for which they have an especial affinity. This collection reminds me of Eugene Ysaye's set of violin sonatas - each dedicated to a particular musician and reminiscent of the artist's style.

The three seem to have a "program" of sorts from the first one ("Homage a Fr. Schubert") to the magnificent SONATA CLASICA dedicated to the memory of Sor to the last one which is a salute to his native country. Segovia gives a broad and enthusiastic interpretation, making the music dance, blend and soar. Some of the technical difficulties seems to demand too much from one set of hands. Add this to your collection NOW.

5 out of 5 stars Ponce in my blood.......2001-01-13

Hi there. I have never listen to a song of Ponce played by another guitarist rather than Segovia, well the other one might be myself. This CD is incredible. As a Mexican, I find it as a picture of Mexico ( even that Ponce lived in France for a long time). He is very unknown, here in Mexico, people doesn't recognize his talent. I think is the best CD I have. I hear it every morning since I bought it. Now, I wonder how this same composer would sound in other hands. I myself don't understand Ponce when I see a sheet of music that I haven't listened before. So, Segovia is a great interpreter. One more thing....if someone knows where I can find Music for guitar by Ponce played by segovia, please let me know. I'm interested in the 12 preludes. If you like Mexican music, you should buy this CD.

Hasta luego...

5 out of 5 stars PULCHRITUDINOUS PONCE.......2000-09-22


Amazingly, every sonata on this CD is a gem. Each has its own particular sparkle, its own light. So much a part of my life are they, for over thirty years, that it is difficult attempting favoritism. I treasure them all, equally.

The SONATA MEXICANA is immediately enchanting, especially the first movement theme which grabs you and never lets go. Such an alluring melody! Ponce teases and tantalizes us by weaving brilliantly throughout. The second movement Andante reminds me of a warm Mexican night, of two lovers secretly meeting beneath the light of a full moon. The Intermezzo ("Serenata"), again, finds Ponce's melodic gift at its peak. With a running time of only 1:58, it is an ingenius seque into the final Allegretto, which has a luscious motif, intoxicating and gorgeous. What is most attractive about this sonata, and the others coupled herein, is the restraint Ponce shows in his writing for the guitar. He is not flamboyant, nor showy, nor boisterous. He has no need to impress us with compositional histrionics, no need to "showcase" his abundant talent. His art lies in capturing our hearts and allowing his music to rest there comfortably.

The SONATA ROMANTICA is a wistful nod to Schubert ("Hommage," as Ponce calls it). Another catchy opening Allegro keeps us wanting more. Hard to get enough. The following second movement Andante is of such exquisite melodic beauty it brings tears easily. Segovia's playing here is particularly sensitive. No. More than this: he is truly in touch with Schubert's spirit and Ponce's muse. So touching is the Andante that the Allegretto, next, dries our eyes; yet, even here, a vague melancholy persists. It doesn't get any better than this. So attuned is Ponce to the mournful Schubertian realm that even the last movement Allegro he marks "serioso."

The SONATA CLASSICA tips its hat to Fernando Sor, the legendary composer and guitarist. The opening Allegro is a clever "take" on Sor's penchant for guitar etudes and minuets. A delight! However, the heart of the work resides in the second movement Andante, reminiscent of the classical natures of both Sor and Beethoven, and a beauty. A spritely Menuet follows--- and one chuckles at the cleverness and exactitude of Ponce's mimicry of style. It's a joy to hear. The concluding Allegro, melodic and upbeat, with hints of Mozart, is perfect and fitting.

These three sonatas are balms and, played so lovingly, but never indulgently, by Segovia, I cannot for the life of me see how they could fail to utterly please and charm.

[Running time: 58:38]

5 out of 5 stars A Winning Combination!.......1999-03-05

I have read that Segovia had a particular appreciation of Ponce's compositions, and it shows on this CD. You can tell that Segovia loved playing every note put on paper by this composer. It's one of my favorites!
Sonatas Romanticas
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • "Sonatas Romanticas," a Gem
Sonatas Romanticas

Manufacturer: The Orchard
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Giuliani, MauroGiuliani, Mauro | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GuitarGuitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00004I9TZ
Release Date: 2000-04-15

Tracks:

  1. Sonata Romantica: Allegro Moderato
  2. Sonata Romantica: Andante Espressivo
  3. Sonata Romantica: Allegretto Vivo
  4. Sonata Romantica: Allegro non Troppo e Serioso
  5. Sonata Op. 15: Allegro Spiritoso
  6. Sonata Op. 15: Adagio
  7. Sonata Op. 15: Finale: Allegro Vivace
  8. Sonatina: Allegretto
  9. Andante
  10. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars "Sonatas Romanticas," a Gem.......2001-09-22

Pecoraro brings to the works on his recording all of the passion and refinement one would expect of a master. His phrasing is elegant, his touch intensely personal, and his sound as rich and warm as the human voice. Pecoraro shares his insights on love, labor, and loss through his interpretations of this music, music which is too often rendered cold and impersonal through empty virtuosity. I give it my highest recommendation!
Sonatas and Suites for Guitar
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Sonatas and Suites for Guitar

    Manufacturer: Opera Tres
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B000NF6VHI

    Product Description

    Suite en estilo antiguo; Suite a la manera de Weiss; Dos piezas al estilo de Wiess; Sonata Classica; Sonatina Meridional; Sonata romantica; Sonata III; Sonata Mexicana. Gerardo Arriaga, guitar. 71 page booklet in Spanish and English.
    Myers, Dyens, Mangore, Ponce, Lauro, Albeniz, Villa-Lobos - Guitar Works - Domenico Martucci
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Myers, Dyens, Mangore, Ponce, Lauro, Albeniz, Villa-Lobos - Guitar Works - Domenico Martucci

      Manufacturer: Nuova Era
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD
      ASIN: B000BMVHO0

      Product Description

      GIOVANNI BENEDETTO PLATTI. From "Sonates pour le clavessin sur le gout italien", Nurnberg 1742: 1. Sonata n. 2 in do maggiore Adagio - Allegro - Aria (Larghetto) - Allegro 2. Sonata n. 4 in sol maggiore Largo - Presto e alla breve - Adagio - Non tanto allegro. From "Sonates per il cembalo solo" Op. IV, Nurnberg 1746: 3. Sonata n. 2 in do minore Fantasia (Allegro) - Adgio - Allegro - Allegro 4. Sonata n. 5 in do minore Adagio - Allegro - Allegro 5. Sonata n. 6 in do maggiore Non tanto allegro - Larghetto - Polonaise - Allegro 6. Sonata n. 4 in la minore Allegro - Adagio - Allegro assai. Diana Petech, harpsichord.
      Manuel Ponce: Sonatas y Suites para guitarra
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Actual Classical Guitar sound
      Manuel Ponce: Sonatas y Suites para guitarra

      Manufacturer: Opera Tres
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GuitarGuitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
      ASIN: B000003DJ6
      Release Date: 2000-09-15

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Actual Classical Guitar sound.......2004-07-20

      This is a really amazing recording. As the other Opera tres recordings, these CDs transmit real and warm classical guitar sound. Ponce's works are especially attractive. His baroque style is another kind of classic. Maybe Gerardo Arriage is not a very famous performer, at least I have no other recording from him. But his performance is really astonish me, steady and deep feelings.

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