Release Date: 20 April 2015
Label: Asc Records
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 7395748036279
Genres: Classical
Composer/Series: Shadow Journey-21st Century Ha
Description
This landmark recording is a showcase, not only of new and remarkably diverse works for harpsichord, but also of an unprecedented assembly of renowned harpsichordists whose credentials for premièring these works are unparalleled. The performers include Maggie Cole, one of the best-known harpsichordists in Britain today and Mahan Esfahani, the rising star of the instrument.
Most notably, the music on this disc is the culmination of a ground-breaking event: the first international composition competition for harpsichord to be run in Britain, launched in 2012 by the British Harpsichord Society to mark the tenth anniversary of its founding.
Over 90 entries from 18 countries were adjudicated over two rounds, producing a shortlist of solo works which admirably demonstrated the qualities sought by the competition: professionalism, integrity and the ability to say something new and exciting about the harpsichord.
The first, second and joint-third prize compositions (by Alessandro Ponti, Jung Sun Kang, and Aled Smith and Jürgen Kraus respectively) are joined on this disc by seven other competition entries, along with works by the adjudication panel members, comprising a programme of 14 première recordings. Here then is truly inventive music of our time for an instrument whose historical associations often belie its contemporary relevance: music to challenge and inspire the listener as well as to engage and excite the growing number of harpsichordists who are incorporating contemporary music into their programmes.
What these composers all demonstrate is a collective sensitivity and insight into the tonal and musical properties of the harpsichord, coupled with a consummate confidence in, and command of, their craft.
Tracklisting
Xuefei Yang, Johannes Moser, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Or
Laura Serra
Michael Cretu
Kenneth Hamilton
John Turner & Neil Smith
Duncan Honeybourne
Alan Barnes & Don Weller
Joseph Skypala, Anna Gregg, Rosalie Curlett, Belfast Sinfonia, Icon Strings
VARIOUS ARTISTS
Wilson/Rte Orch/Sinfonia Ldn
Various
Various
Various
Various
Various
The Sixteen/Britten Sinfonia
