The
quartet of button accordion players of the National Philharmonic
of Ukraine was founded in 1939. It was headed by the ancestor
of quartet, People's Artist of Ukraine, professor Mykola Rizol.
Today the quartet performers are: Artistic leader: People's
Artist of Ukraine, Laureate of the International Competition,
Sergiy Grinchenko (first accordion); Honoured Artist of
Ukraine, Laureate of the Ukrainian Competition, Vyacheslav
Samofalav (second accordion); Oleg Shyan (accordion-bariton)
and Roman Molochenko (accordion-contrabass).
All of these players graduated from
the P.I. Tchaikovsky National Musical Academy of Ukraine. The
quartet performances left unforgettable impressions in many cities
of Ukraine, Russia, Belorus, Poland, Italy and Switzerland. Swiss
newspapers wrote the following about the great success of the
quartet "inconceivable possibilities, almost incredible virtuosity,
the highest musicality, clearness of playing, passionate self-payment
of musicians".
In October 1999 the quartet won
first prize at the Citta
di Castelfidardo International Competition (Italy) and received
a diploma at the Astor Piazzolla International Competition (Italy).
The quartet has unique musical instruments,
which makes it possible for them to perform a varied repertoire,
including musical compositions written for the symphonic orchestra.
On this recording Rizol's Quartet's
program comprises of mainly original pieces for the accordion
with the exception of the first three tracks. I had a feeling
that any of the pieces they perform on this recording could easily
be used as an 'encore' - they are all very appealing. To me, their
program came across like some kind of "encore bouquet".
Listening to Rizol's Quartet is
an exquisite musical experience, characterised by the highest
performing culture and professionalism, refined musicality and
clarity. What touched me the most is the incredible passion with
which they play. At times it has a touch of flair to it, at other
times the deep and profound passion they play with is totally
overwhelming. The power of their performance is such that they
have control of the listeners - they can make them quiet, can
make them think..........
All four group members are masterful
technicians in all areas. As an ensemble they are compact and
a balanced unit.
It is a mighty performance and a
musical experience that will live with you for a long time.
*****
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