 Southern
Impressions has one of the most beautiful CD covers of any I have
seen on an accordion recording. It is not only of a gorgeous young
woman but it is also extremely intriguing and inviting; one cannot
help but want to listen to the music inside! The designer should
be very pleased for the concept; in my opinion, it really works.
The liner notes are very well written and informative with all the
necessary Opus numbers so requisite of serious recordings and published
programs. Thank you! The recording balance sometimes had the left
hand overshadowing that of the right hand but mostly quite satisfactory.
One may detect a little "buzz" or artificiality in the
very low bass notes but, frankly, that particular effect is reminiscent
of the striking of chords in the low range of the harpsichord.
The repertoire is interesting, of course, and is generally well-known.
Many musicians, pianists and accordionists alike, have struggled
to learn the pieces; therefore, this recording is a good example
for study and consideration. The only original accordion composition
included was the popular Ole Schmidt Toccata #2 which in my opinion
was the least satisfying performance on the CD, not only because
of the slow tempo but also because of the lack of dynamic accentuation
and effervescence associated with this piece.
Jacek Grekow's performances are beautifully sensitive and admirable
in many ways; however, with that said, one might also find some
of them lacking in a certain excitement and fire, emanating from
within the performer, reactions that are so required and necessary
in order to ignite the emotions in the listener. It seemed he was
always in a conservative, cautious and controlled environment, both
with dynamics and tempi. His performances might have been better
if he had taken a chance and provoked more fervor. Everything was
pretty, sensitive, and measured, maybe just a bit too much so. The
music may have warranted even more contrast in his dynamics and
in his technique styles. He had some stunning pianissimos but he
needed some fortissimos, too. His legatos were also beautiful but,
again, I wanted some distinction in the phrasing, more variety in
the touch, whether within the long phrase or on single notes.
Mr. Grekow is a fine player and this CD is absolutely worthy of
your attention. It has many fine qualities for study and enjoyment.
It is recommended without qualification. He may be reached at (+48)
85 742 44 22 or E-mail: grekowj@wp.pl
Or you may go to http://www.grekow.art.pl for more information.
CD Review Joan
Cochran Sommers - 28 March, 2008
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