ARNOLD: Guitar Concerto. BROUWER: “Retrats Catalans.” CHAPPELL:...

ARNOLD: Guitar Concerto. BROUWER: “Retrats Catalans.” CHAPPELL: “Caribbean Concerto.” Eduardo Fernandez, guitar; English Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Barry Wordsworth. London 430 233-2. The multifaceted Arnold Concerto is arguably the best of contemporary guitar concertos-- pace Rodrigians--and Fernandez explores and exploits it thoroughly, virtuosity supporting musicality. He also serves the coloristic Brouwer portraits--Mompou and Gaudi--engagingly, and gives the inconsistent Chappell piece a full measure of dashing fun. Wordsworth and the orchestra provide fluent support.