Irresistibly Pretty
author: George A. Gerhard
The ten pieces on this disc Volumes I and II, assayed clearly and
beautifully by Composer and pianist Setrak Setrakian, display the composer's
capability for variety within each separate work........Setrakian
finds the music's distinctive beauty and even manages some coherence
to the overall program. When he needs to be fleeting and clever, as in
the J. Brahms, Sonata No.2 Op.2, he does so in a pitch-perfect,
non-tongue-in-cheek fashion; when he needs to be lush, as in the
Khachaturian-Setrakian, Sabre Dance or the very end of Melody
and Variations, he achieves a round, centered tone. His touch is just
right for this music, which he takes on with an appropriately serious
sense of whimsy. These compositions are so irresistibly pretty that
this disc is worth a listen on that score alone.
George A. Gerhard, Music Reviewer
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The Maestro of the Middle East - Setrak Setrakian.
author: Maureen Boyes, International Composer's Union
This double CD set was Maestro Setrak Setrakian’s first American debut CD and from the moment I first listened to it, I was mesmerized by his talent and skill. He also has his own rendition of Sabre Dance which I find to be a fantastic arrangement of this piece. Whoever if fortunate enough to own this CD set will be able to look forward to years of enjoyment and pleasure. I am honored to write a review for these CDs.
Maureen S. Boyes
Director, International Composer’s Union
Boston, Massachusetts USA
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