"Rhapsody no. 2 in C minor" (Pietro Frosini) technically perfect recording by John Molinari

A "rhapsody" is similar to a 'fantasy' which is a spontaneously composed work that has no formal structure. It consists of only one movement & has a free-flowing structure full of contrasting moods, colour & tonality which Franz Liszt made popular in the 19th century. As a popular vaudeville performer, Pietro Frosini composed very few serious works like this one. Most of his 200 works were light & folkish in character & his three Rhapsodies are of a more serious & grander scale. The very opening statement of this work with its tragic sonority is obviously patterned after Beethoven's Sonata no. 8 the 'Pathetique' & is in the same key of C minor.
The darker character of this beautiful work may have been result of the death of his beloved wife which he had difficulty getting over. Of course, you can't ask for a better performer of any major accordion composition than the great John Molinari who's lively personality renders his performances happy & energetic.

[@robertpaul9157]

A very interesting recording....wonderfully played....the approach in my mind is bang on ...cheers

[@robertpaul9157]

Brilliantly played

[@richardplante1229]

There's something unique about the sound of a Giulietti for sure. To someone with an untrained ear, it sounds like any other accordion. Right! Not quite. There's some magic there that only the members of the various assembly departments talk about amongst themselves. Insider talk so to speak. But John Molinari brings Frosini to life and brilliance. Amazing the way Molinari blends his technical radiance with the composer's music. I'm still working to obtain the level of skills Molinari has in his bellowed tool box (this is said with a chuckle). From my own observation, it seems that the most gifted and passionate musicians not only have great mental acumen and emotional stamina to range and pace, but a healthy belief in the biology of the body to deliver stunning performance. I don't know where you find these gems Paul but thanks for uploading another winner.

[@accordionland1205]

Thank you for your enlightening comments Richard! I know that, no matter how hard I worked, I'd never even come close to Mr Molinari's level of virtuosity,...he has what sports analysts call that special "X factor."