Hilary Field reviews
PREMIERES
"Upon listening to Hilary Field's most recent album Premieres, you might wonder if perhaps she was born in the wrong part of the world: from all outward appearances, she's an exceptionally talented guitarist based in Seattle, however her music reveals that her heart belongs to Spain and Latin America. She has embraced and mastered the unique lyrical, rhythmic, and harmonic qualities of Spanish/South American music, and she's made that genre the central thrust of her musical output. Meanwhile, she combines these striking musical qualities with her distinctly American approach to classical guitar technique, tone, and playing precision. Premieres is focused on presenting an array of new works, including several pieces dedicated to Hilary Field, one of which is a gorgeous composition by legendary Argentinian guitarist/composer Jorge Morel. Beyond that there is further stylistic blending to be found throughout the disc: two works by Jorge Morel and Victor Kioulaphides take their inspiration from baroque forms, but are simultaneously South American in much of their flavor and design, meanwhile a work by Alberto Cumplido blends renaissance and Spanish styles because it's dedicated to lute composer John Dowland. Every aspect of the disc has been carefully laid out and executed, from the selection of the repertoire to Field's touching and effortless playing. With an array of beautiful new music and a particular attention to lyrical, accessible compositions, this disc is one that any lover of the classical guitar will enjoy." - Minor 7th - 10/26/15
"More often than not, multiple composer collections like this one, and especially when they're modern composers, always contain a few pieces that are so far out in left field as to be jarring and unpleasant to hear, and leave you no choice but to skip over them or not listen to the CD at all. Definitely not the case this time around. Each and every piece on this disc, some of which were written for, or dedicated to guitarist Hilary Field, are a pleasure to discover and beg for repeated listens, as they bring out the instrument's expressive temperament. After all, the term 'lyrical' is in the title.
Hilary Field instinctively brings out the essence of each piece, either through expressive touches or subtle dynamic nuances that enhance the harmonic flow of the music. She captures well the 'blue' nature of some of the pieces, and lends them a personal touch and deep expression. I've personally not heard this good of a guitar collection in a long time. If you play classical guitar, you should add this new recording to your collection. And even if you don't play, this could very well inspire you to pick up an instrument and start learning. - Classical Music Sentinel - 9/19/15
"Contemporary and lyrical? I’m in. And guitarist Hilary Field doesn’t disappoint here: these pieces (by composers like Douglas Lora, Nadia Boríslova, Alberto Cumplido, and Field herself) are modern and sometimes forbiddingly virtuosic, but always engaging and sweetly melodic. Well, to be honest, most of them don’t sound that “modern”–Field’s use of the word “contemporary” in the title is wise. And her playing is magnificent. Highly recommended." - CD Hotlist, New Releases for Libraries - 9/19/15
Acoustic Guitar
"Field is one of a growing number of gifted women gaining prominence in the classical guitar world.....Field displays sensitive musicianship, solid technique, and a burnished tone. Her premier of Morel's "Berceuse" alone is worth the price of the album."
The Seattle Times
"Field is a dynamic player. She doesn't just recite what can often be complex work, but imbues it with fire and
grace."
The Seattle Weekly
"With the experience and skill she brings to this recording, Music of Spain and Latin America is a remarkable first outing for Hilary Field. It serves notice that the Northwest has yet another musical success to claim, and makes one anticipate her future recordings."
Victory Music
"While many classical guitarists play all the right notes in a dutiful manner, Field's playing contains an emotional
depth that reaches the heart of this music."
Seattle Showcase
"Refinement, expression, and a graceful performance are all captured in this fine recording of a uniquely
talented and well-studied guitarist."
South Sound Sounds
"Like the debut recording, Ballad Stories is a technically seamless recording of an instrumental virtuoso playing beautiful music. That combination has resulted in a collection of exquisite instrumental music. It is beyond my ability to find fault in any aspect of this production, which is certain to make Field again a contender for national music awards."
Platter Chatter
"With the experience and skill she brings to this recording, Music of Spain and Latin America is a remarkable first outing for Hilary Field. It serves notice that the Northwest has yet another musical success to claim, and makes one
anticipate her future recordings."
The Seattle Weekly
"Field plays all of this splendidly, and the locally produced recording is appropriately intimate and tasteful. A hometown triumph all around."