Richard Durrant (guitar) with Howard Beach (harpsichord)

A gentle rippling of Bach arranged for guitar began this exquisite concert. With sensitive amplification greatly enhancing the Ropetackle’s lifeless acoustic, it seemed as if the jam-packed and hushed audience was eaves-dropping on a private meditation. Richard was sharing something very special with just a few (200+) friends. Adding Howard’s harpsichord gave more colour and musical breadth, the sound meticulously balanced. Thrilling glissandos, blissful calm, ravishing speed – it’s music you want to listen to breathless so as not to disturb the air. Boccherini’s Introduction & Fandango was astonishing in its beauty and virtuosity. This was a very special evening.

Coda: Their new CD faithfully evokes the nuances, delicacy and excitement of these brilliant performances and is now available from www.richard-durrant.com.

The Ropetackle, 5 October 2014

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