Julian Bream is a hugely under-rated artist and deserves more recognition than J.Williams in my opinion. I listened to Williams playing the same piece with Barenboim, but was unimpressed by his mechanical precision ( often mistaken by listeners and critics alike for his artistic strength ) and lack of emotion and tonal delicacy. He can not match the subtlety and richness of tones Bream produce and the soulful singing quality of melodie line. This recording of Aranjuez Concerto is a good proof. J.E.Gardiner provise brilliant and deeply-felt support with the orhcestra.

If ever there was a formula for perfection, this should have been it. Here we have Rodrigo's finest compositions combined with the guitar artistry of Julian Bream in a completely remastered edition. However, I can't give this disc five stars; there are superior versions available.

Before you click the "Buy" option, do yourself a favor and check out the CD, Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre conducted by Neville Mariner with Pepe Romero on guitar, to hear one of the finest performances of Spanish guitar available. Listen and compare the preview clips from both recordings and see which brings more life and passion to Rodrigo.

This CD is a good gift choice to introduce a friend to a wonderful composer; the works on it are full of a deliciously evocative Spanish flair and style. I think anyone who enjoys classical music, particularly anyone who likes music with a strong romantic impulse, will like this CD.