Classical Music: Gabríel Ólafs

Gabríel Ólafs Fantasía for Cello and Orchestra

Gabríel Ólafs piano, Steiney Sigurdardóttir cello
Reykavik Orchestra Viktor Orri Árnason

Decca

It is not often that a classical music reviewer gets to hear and comment on a single, but this atmospheric and enjoyable Fantasía for Cello and Orchestra is a piece that will be enjoyed by many who choose to download it and explore more of Gabriel Ólafs' orchestral works. 

It has a strong Celtic feel, and I read that the 25-year-old Icelandic composer has fallen in love with the orchestra.

“The way this collective of amazing players becomes one is awesome; there’s nothing like hearing a symphony orchestra play.” This short, four-minute work captures his enthusiasm, using cello and piano effectively, to create a beautiful, lilting melody with such an efficacious orchestration. Steinevy Sigurdardottir’s sonorous cello is uplifting and poignant.