Italian
English
"GUITART" (October - December 2001) - Review by Piero Viti
Ganesh Del Vescovo
Six Studies ("Sei Studi") (very difficult)
for guitar
CD included
edited by Bruno Giuffredi
Music Edition: Edizioni Musicali Sinfonica. Brugherio (MI), Italy 2000, 37 pages
The recently published Sei Studi (Six Studies) by Ganesh Del Vescovo (Publisher: Edizioni Sinfonica) are really a true novelty, in the widest meaning of the word and represent one of the most interesting and successful didactical works that have appeared on the market in recent times. There are many reasons why this collection is so interesting, be it because of the novel technical aspects proposed by the Author, as well as because of the fascinating deeply poetic world which is evoked. In a unity between traditional techniques and actually authentic inventions (such as the "pizzicato Ganesh", a complicated effect made by plucking the notes only with the right hand while leaving the left hand free to create other sound effects), and the magical and spiritual atmosphere created by the sounds of the cultures of the Orient (especially that of India), these works, in fact, create a novel world of sound which unfolds towards yet unexplored horizons of the guitar.
There are six studies included in this collection: the first one: Invocazione a Sita is developed in a way that is similar to an Indian Raga, with an essentially monodic melody of supple and quiet nature, up-held by long drones on the open strings, and developed entirely through an expressive repetition of notes. The second piece is instead totally constructed on a myriad of percussion effects which transform the guitar into an exciting "set" of percussion instruments, rich with instrumental novelties on the guitar.
The third study deepens the use of microtones, using a hieratic and suspended tune, full of infinite variations which remind one of the transfigured oriental use of melody. The forth study, Sandhya, is instead developed on the glissando and calls for the use of the so-called "Sarod glissando" (from the name of an oriental instrument). This is obtained by sliding from one note to the other with a smooth glissando, using the finger-nail of the left hand to made a more resonant and expressive sound effect. This, together with the freedom used in the rhythms, which is explicitly indicated by the author, creates a feeling similar to that of a recitativo, full of a sonorous fascination which reminds one of far off places and the "sitar". The fifth study is totally based on the "pizzicato Ganesh", (which we have mentioned above), and develops all its possibilities. This represents one of the most outstanding novelties on the instrument and one of the most fascinating moments of the entire collection. The last study, number six, Antar Mouna, is on the harmonics. These too are explored in a very original way and create a sonorous world that recalls star-like fascinations. All the technical indications given in the sheet music are very deep clear and. The CD included is extremely useful. The performance is by the author who, we wish to remind you, is also an excellent guitarist who studied under the school of Company and presents his work with great clarity. Congratulations to the author!
( Piero Viti )
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