Originally issued by Collins Classics, this 1989 Granados and Falla recital features sensitive, idiomatic, and beautifully polished performances. While Cristina Ortiz does not consistently attain the kind of dynamism, sweep, and impassioned characterizations that made Alicia de Larrocha’s Goyescas unique, her finest moments truly impress.
For example, Ortiz underlines El Fandango de candil’s basic galliard-like rhythm by keeping the tempos steady and the thick, swirling textures in clear perspective. Similar classicism and control mark El amor y la muerte’s paragraphic climaxes. Ortiz also shines in Quejas o la Maja y el Ruisenor. Listen to how she tosses off the coda’s rapid filigree with supple nonchalance.
In Falla’s Tres Obras Desconocidas, Ortiz shapes the opening Cancion more directly and with a longer, more satisfying sense of line than conveyed in the fussier, more fragmented interpretations of Miguel Baselga (BIS) and Daniel Ligorio (Naxos). Her swift, lyrical way with the Danza de Gnomos and the Canto de los Remeros del Volga also contrast to the heavier intensity of Baselga and Ligorio. Superb sonics and annotations make this welcome reissue all the more attractive, especially at Brilliant Classics’ budget price.
