Reviews

Irish flautist Gary Arbuthnot’s sophomore album “Asturias” is a genuine feast for the ears. His pedigree training from the Royal Academy of Music in London shines throughout this recording. From the first track, “Firedance”, a riveting Irish piece, Arbuthnot produces a brilliant tone quality that commands energy, enthusiasm, and power. The arrangements are captivating and enthralling. In his version of “Carmen”, he brings a fresh rendition full of technical wizardry and flair to this traditional flute standard. His “Flight of the Bumble Bee” is completely unique stamped with Arbuthnot bravura. More tender tracks include “For the Love of a Princess” (Braveheart) and the ever popular “The Rose”. Other standout tracks include “Schindler’s List, “He’s a Pirate” (Pirates of the Caribbean) and “Tango de Roxanne”. Overall, this album is sure to engage even the most critical musicians as Gary Arbuthnot’s captivating sound is spellbinding.”

“Stunningly beautiful and impeccable were the first words that came to mind as I listened to Irish flutist Gary Arbuthnot playing on the CD Asturias. Arbuthnot’s tone is luscious, deep, rich, velvety, pure—every quality you could imagine in the ideal flute tone (or at least my ideal). His musicality is relaxing and moving and his technical precision is flawless. Titles include “For the Love of a Princess” (from the film Braveheart), “The Rose,” “He’s a Pirate” (from the film Pirates of the Caribbean), “Schindler’s List,” “November Rain” (by the rock group Guns and Roses), “Carmen,” “El Tango De Roxanne” (from the film Moulin Rouge), and Adagio (by Albinoni), to name a few. The arrangements are imaginative and distinct, and the order of the selections was thoughtfully considered; the CD takes you on a musical journey through a variety of moods, styles, and genres.”

“Celtic Connections principal purpose is to entertain the listener with a varied program of light classical crossover tracks (and) I would say it’s among the best I’ve ever heard. The music mostly places the flute in modern arrangements with a mixture of live and electronic backing tracks in the “Contemporary Celtic” style. The tracks are atmospheric and invigorating. Although this CD is more aimed at the mass market appeal, Gary Arbuthnot’s flute playing is really quite phenomenal. His technique is flawless, and his sound is nothing short of breathtaking – it has vibrancy, resonance, nuance and clarity in spades.”

“Dear Gary: A friend just shared with me your beautiful version of THE ROSE, which is one of my earliest compositions. It is absolutely gorgeous and I thank you for this example of what a genius can do with a simple melody.My heart is lightened! Thank you.”

“Gary Arbuthnot was spectacular….Carmen Fantasy was one particular pearl in a string ranging through Mozarts
Quartet K.285 and Beethoven’s Serenade Op.25”

“Debussy’s Syrinx for solo flute, was mesmerising with Gary Arbuthnot’s fullness of tone and precision of articulation.”

“Gary Arbuthnot….his recital at the Bank of Ireland Arts Centre quickly established the basis for his success: easy delivery, strong tone, and a clear relish in the florid writing which the flute has encouraged from so many composers”

“Gary Arbuthnot was the outstanding soloist in the performance of this work [Ibert Flute Concerto]. The agility shown in the first movement was a complete contrast to the poignancy of the adagio, while the finale gave him every chance to show off the scores intricate patterns”

“The outstandingly musical Gary Arbuthnot afforded the listeners in much of the concert what might be described as delicate aural luxury. Indeed, beauty of sound proved to be a captivating feature from beginning to end. It was a deeply moving and involved performance”

“The evening started with Irish flautist Gary Arbuthnot gliding through Telemann’s Fantasy in Bb and Takemitsu’s Voice, demonstrating a remarkable sense of dynamics while producing a heavenly tone”

“..this was followed by Reinecke’s seldom performed Flute Concerto in D. Soloist Gary Arbuthnot held the audience enthralled with a display of beautiful playing. His exquisite tone, limpid phrasing, and sparkling trills were quite delightful and elicited prolonged applause from the admiring listeners”

“The star of the show was undoubtedly Gary Arbuthnot who gave a breath-taking performance”