New works by Sir George Martin on Sigmund Groven´s new CD.
From Erik Bye to Flåklypa Grand Prix
Sigmund Groven is not just the harmonica´s top ambassador, but also Norway´s. His concert repertoire has always included a range of different styles, from folk music to Bach, via his own compositions to Norwegian contemporary music and scores for films and TV series. Groven has toured on every continent, to panegyric reviews, and has had a number of works specially composed for his.
New works by Sir George Martin
In addition to Beatles classics such as "Michelle", "Eleanore Rigby", "Norwegian Wood" and "Yesterday", Groven has included Russian folk tunes, film music from Hollywood as well as his own compositions. The album features music from he world of pop, but presents also contemporary and traditional melodies. Groven masters all these genres and delivers a variety of wonderful performances, superbly accompanied by The Norwegian Radio Orchestra conducted by John Wilson. Here we also find recordings by Sir George Martin that Groven has the honor of playing for the first time. Sir Martin´s exciting compositions are perfect for Groven´ brilliant feeling and technical skill. Sir Martin was a good friend of Tommy Reilly, Groven´s mentor, and composed and arranged for him. Later he became an avid supporter of Groven.
World Class Harmonica Performer
Here, There and Everywhere is a beautiful and evocative album and Groven shows again that he is among the the top harmonica players in the world. His sense of musical variations, and his finely tuned technique makes him a very popular musician, both with audiences and critics.
– In the right hands it can humble harmonica is an advanced instrument of great beauty. Sigmund Groven, like Tommy Reilly and Larry Adler before him, taking full advantage of the harmonicas´ great range and sound possibilities. He is a brilliant musician and is today arguably one of the finest harmonica performers in the world, says an impressed Sir George Martin.
