The name of Vladimir Zubitsky is very well known in the accordion world. He is not only well known as one of the leading button accordionists but also as an composer whose contributions towards accordion literature are enormous. Born in 1953, Zubitsky studied at the Kiev National Music Academy. As he had a wide spectre of talents and interests in many areas of music, Vladimir graduated in three areas: button accordion (with Professor Vladimir Besfamilnov), composing and conducting. In 1975 Vladimir won the Coupe Mondiale in Helsinki and in 1985 he was awarded a prize at the UNESCO competition "Youth and Freedom " for composing the cantata "Monologue of the Sun". Presently living in Italy and Kiev he performs internationally, adjudicates, conducts master classes and his compositions are regularly included in concerts and competition programs. The diapason and spectre of genres which Zubitsky performed, composed and recorded with a huge choice of pieces for this recording is more jazz orientated - and all composed by Zubitsky. Apart from the two movements from the Bulgarian "Note Book" Suite (inspired by picturesque folklore and rhythms of South Slavs) and Rosinniana (based on Rossini's popular themes) the rest of the recordings are jazz improvisations on popular and famous themes by composers such as Galliano, Fancelli, Beltrami, Chaikin and Vlasov. Zubitsky's performing style is unique, his artistic "signature" is instantly recognisable and this recording proves just that! He is a master of tonal nuances, a performer of great sensibility and absolute technical freedom. Zubitsky's jazz improvisations are highly sophisticated, full of temperament and refined humour which means they are a pleasure to listen to. His use of different sound effects on the accordion are with great taste. This is an absolutely superb recording, which gets my highest recommendations! |
