Scott Joplin Music

This is one of my favorite CD's from Daniel Smith's recordings. I am continually delighted by the range of his virtuosity. From Vivaldi to Joplin, the rich tones of his bassoon pleases the ear. I am a particular fan of his jazz performances.

Having heard Mr Smith in Classical Concerts as well as playing superb jazz I cannot recommend highly enough any of his recordings. His Vivaldi concerto recordings have received awards both here in the UK and in the US. This apart from a full page in the Penguin Review of CDs, reviews in Classic CD and Fanfare as well as articles on his life and work, and his great passion for his instrument and his wish to make it better known throughout the world both as a classical instrument and also for jazz. The disc in question is not only enjoyable music to hear but contains great playing. I have had many hours of very happy listening to Bravo Bassoon and the Vivaldi Concerto recordings. I urge you to listen to these discs and to include them in your record library.

One of the most delightful and surprising discs I have run across is Bravo Bassoon. I came upon Daniel Smith with his classical hat on; but I love this recording with its range of music from Joplin through Schubert and Gershwin. In this age of "crossover" this is a truly inspired choice of repertory; and the unusual use of the bassoon is enchanting. Try the Joplin tracks, or the Melody in F by Rubinstein. The adaptations of the music are really good. I loved the choice of music -- I think it is a really well-balance programme for this kind of disc -- and the sensitive accompaniments of Jonathan Still is a real asset. I noticed not long ago that Daniel Smith was also playing at London's Pizza on the Park as a jazz bassoonist! I now want to get along to hear this excellent musician live and am quite looking forward to his jazz. Smith must simply be Mr Bassoon with all the recordings he has made and his appeal with both popular and classical music. I have heard tracks from his recordings often on the station Classic FM in the UK and I can see why he is such a favourite. I am getting more than my money's worth from this CD, which I play regularly.

As an ardent fan of Daniel Smith's Vivaldi recordings I was most pleased to receive "Bravo Bassoon" for my birthday from a bassoonist friend who also appreciates his virtuosity. What fun to hear the rich, sonorous tones of Mr. Smith's in varied selections from strictly classical to opera to ragtime to the likes of Jerome Kern. Maybe Mr. Smith could bring us a strictly jazz bassoon recording...with his talents, that would be heavenly!

This record is simply beautiful. I love the way Daniel Smith plays this very difficult instrument with any kind of music. Bravo D. Smith

This is a wonderful collection of great songs representing the U.S. The Boston Pops have done a remarkable job in getting each song started nice smooth and then as it goes on, it collects more and more energy until the end of the song, where I was left shivering. My favorites are Alexander's Ragtime Band, When the Saints Go Marching In, and Stars and Stripes Forever. Not only do they sound great, the energy is stunning. I would recommend this cd to anyone who likes classic songs that you can really feel.

This is a nice Sunday afternoon concert. It's popular enough that most everyone will recognize the program. Of course it is well performed. You're toes will be tapping before long!