Sivan Magen - French Reflections - Sinfini Music

There are many works of subtle beauty for harp that are seldom recorded. Perhaps first among these is Fauré's haunting Une châtelaine en sa tour, for which young Israeli harpist Sivan Magen draws a veiled and dusky tone from his instrument, the contrapuntal writing realized with clarity.  In Caplet's Divertissement  à la Française, Magen treats his listeners to breathtaking tempi with articulations at all times perfectly inflected; the following Divertissement à l'Espagnole delivers dark atmospheres and pleasing boisterousness.

Much like Magen's previous release, Fantasien (also available from Linn records), French Reflections not only encompasses works from the harp's core repertoire, but also transcriptions of notable ambition. The inclusion of two of Debussy's Estampes showcases a wonderful, kaleidoscopic variety of attack, portraying all from fine rain to the percussive thrill of guitars. His perfumed reading of 'Soirée dans Grenade' is especially successful.

This recording is laudable for including two contemporary works of the highest rank: Mantovani's ferocious Tocar barrages us with fiery virtuosity and pounding rhythm. In short, both this album and this artist have it all: intellect, refinement, virtuosic skill and sensuality.