CLASSICSTODAY.COM David Hurwitz “This is a wonderful disc in every respect. Al Gallodoro: whether in the raucous opening glissando of Rhapsody in Blue or in the numerous solo licks elsewhere, he rocks, plain and simple. Lincoln Mayorga also proves to be a fine Gershwin pianist. He gives the music an easy elegance and sophistication that never turns mannered or self-conscious, as so often happens when classical artists attempt what they consider to be a jazz style. More importantly, Steven Richman has assembled (and conducts) a splendid program that more than justifies buying yet another recording of the two concertante chestnuts. The sonics…are outstanding, capturing the vivid playing of Richman's Harmonie Ensemble with unfailing naturalness. Go for it.
CLASSICSTODAYFRANCE.COM Christopher Huss "This is the Gershwin disc we have been waiting for for a very, very long time."
CONCERTONET.COM "Steven Richman’s total grasp and comprehension of Gershwin’s intent causes the music to come alive in a manner seldom encountered in performance, let alone a recording. The Harmonie Ensemble/New York performs with great virtuosity and joy of the music, that is both captivating and revealing. Pianist Lincoln Mayorga plays it with all of the verve and panache the concerto requires. An added touch of authenticity to this recording is the absolutely amazing playing of ninety-three year old reedman Al Gallodoro, an original member of the Whiteman Band. His playing of the extremely difficult opening clarinet cadenza, an ascending seventeen note figure as a “whooping” slide, can hardly be equaled. He established the standard and has set it for years to come... the Sonics of the recording are simply spectacular. If you are an admirer of Gershwin’s music or a jazz enthusiast in general, you cannot pass this recording by. This is an absolute ‘must have’!”
THE SCOTSMAN “A truly fascinating disc. There's the remarkable clarinet/saxophone playing of 90-year-old Al Gallodoro for a start - a member of the original Paul Whiteman Orchestra who died shortly after making these recordings that feature him playing the famous glissando opening of ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ with pianist Lincoln Mayorga as soloist and the excellent Harmonie Ensemble of New York. Steven Richman conducts these recreations of the original Whiteman Band orchestrations… in versions that might be new to modern ears.”