Vision Dances CD Review

Listening of this program of original works by Mikhail Sytchev one hears the influence of Nikita Koshkin in much of this writings. The pieces are packed with drama, humor, aggression, passion and impressionism and without exception, are all very well composed and interesting. Particularly entertaining are the five descriptive scenes for children, which with the graphic titles such as Pony Step, Acrobats, Sorceress, Harlequin and Troubadour's Song create engaging musical imagery. Throughout, Sytchev plays with extraordinary flair and musicality and this recording certainly whets the appetite for hearing more of this very good composer / guitarist.

Steve Marsh
(Classical Guitar Magazine)


Aquarelles
Les Productions d'Oz DZ944

Aquarelles is in three sections, the first one, titled In the Garden is a tranquil and melodic little waltz which saunters along nicely until a totally unexpected ending is reached where the rhythm and tempo quite dramatically alter. The following Spirit of the Dance is another gentle and melodic composition the main feature of which is the constant drone of the low f note at the start of each bar. The concluding After the Rain illustrates how a skilled writer for the guitar can write economically (a good deal of this piece hangs around first position, as did the previous one) and still produce a good end product worthy of note. This is nice music, well written, well presented and any player of around Grade 6 standard should perhaps check it out.

Steve Marsh
(Classical Guitar Magazine)


Five Scenes for Children's Home Theatre
Les Productions d'Oz DZ949

The Russian guitarist/composer Mikhail Sytchev wrote these extraordinary pieces in 2003; they were inspired by memories of his up bringing where, at family gatherings on New Year's Eve, the children would dress up and perform spontaneous sketches based on fairy tales and cartoons - hence the "Children's Home Theatre" part of the title. Each movement is titled and this certainly helps with the interpretation and visualisation when hearing the music. The sure-fire hit of the bunch must unquestionably be the second scene, titled Acrobats this imagery is what is conjured up when the music is played - a really good example of imaginative writing; beware though, the tempo indication of Allegro is overlooked by the composer himself, his version is more Prestissimo and this is a composition wchich really does need speed to make it credible. Following this comes the dark and mysterious Sorceress, made even more sinister by the very fact that it does come next. These Five Scenes are very entertaining and absorbing; the suite is a stirring work, with here and there, suggestions of the musical style of Koshkin and well worthy of consideration for the concert platform. The rather creepy caricature figurine on the front cover, and the fact that the word "children" is in the title, could be a little misleading if this edition was spotted on the shelves in any music shop, this music is by no means an easy ride and should only be attempted by high grade players.

Steve Marsh
(Classical Guitar Magazine)