The Castellani/Andriaccio Duo, and: The Newman and Oltman Guitar Duo

Two recently released performance DVDs showcase two quite outstanding yet fundamentally different classical guitar duos. They are both presented in a similar fashion but the players themselves exhibit profoundly different strengths.

Both of these DVDs, which introduce us to the Castellani/Andriaccio Duo and the Newman and Oltman Guitar Duo, are produced by Mel Bay Publishers. The ensembles (which are both female-male duos based in the New York/New Jersey area) are filmed in similar studios and perform arrangements of works that were originally written for piano. That, however, is where the similarities end.

The Castellani/Andriaccio Duo performs works by Scarlatti, Haydn, and Turina, plus a series of tangos. The true highlight here is the immaculate precision of their playing. All notes are as articulate as they possibly could be and the ornaments are executed with astonishingly crisp accuracy. The pieces often sound like one player is performing rather than two. It is that clean.

Duo members Joanne Castellani and Michael Andriaccio are both active professional musicians. They co-direct the JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Concerto Competition with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. Castellani is also director of guitar studies at SUNY Buffalo. Andriaccio has a separate solo career having recently released a CD of bossa nova pieces on the Fleur de Son Classics label.

Turning to the Newman and Oltman Guitar Duo, we see a shift of emphasis to that of passion and expression. Their program consists of their own arrangements of piano works by the Spanish composer, Isaac Albéniz. All the appropriate flamenco-like fire and engaging stage presence are brought forward for this musical wild ride through Iberia. (Albéniz entitled many of his pieces with the names of cities or regions in Spain such as "Sevilla," "Granada," "Cataluña," and "Asturias.")

In their verbal introduction to the program, Newman and Oltman tell us that they are striving for a warm, legato sound. They certainly achieve that goal in this DVD. Part of the secret of this rich and balanced tone can be found in the fine instruments they play. Both were crafted by master luthier, Thomas Humphrey.

Laura Oltman and Michael Newman are also highly recognized guitar educators. Oltman teaches at Princeton and Rutgers universities, and Michael Newman is a member of the faculty at the Mannes College of Music.

Both DVDs offer quality presentations that would be worthy additions to a music library's collection. The length of each program is approximately forty-five minutes. The video quality is clear and bright with camera angles varying throughout the programs to offer good views of the performers' playing techniques. Sound quality is equally good and allows the listener to hear the fine subtleties of the artists' phrasing. In each case, the performers present interesting and informative verbal introductions to their programs which will enhance the viewer's appreciation of the music.

In conclusion, these DVDs offer valuable viewing for a wider audience than just guitarists. The clarity of the Castellani/ Andriaccio Duo's performing, and the heartfelt expression of the Newman/ Oltman Duo, present musicianship that would be enjoyable and beneficial for any amateur or professional musician to experience.