Release Date: 09 March 2009
Label: GB Records
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 6409999115216
Genres: Classical  
Release Date: 09 March 2009
Label: GB Records
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 6409999115216
Genres: Classical  
Description
Gavin Bryars' major new ballet score is based on iconic moments in Tchaikovsky's ever popular ballets Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty.
Gavin Bryars has a long association with dance has worked with some of the world's leading choreographers. Amjad is his second work with Édouard Lock's La La La Human Steps and they plan more work together. The music strikes a balance between a direct and recognizable reference to the Tchaikovsky source and new compositions, while retaining the essence of the original music. The reduced instrumentation takes an unusual chamber music formation - 2 violas, cello and piano - an ensemble capable of providing a full sound in the theatre, and the omission of the more conventional violins giving a darker and richer sonority.
Bryars wrote 16 pieces, of which 13 are included in Amjad, and Édouard Lock added four pieces by the American composer David Lang, which also refer to the Tchaikovsky ballets and use the same instrumentation. The ballet has toured the world since its premiere in 2007, and continues to be performed to great critical acclaim, and audiences everywhere have praised the beauty of the music. The performers on this recording are the musicians who have been with the work since its inception.
Tracklisting
Gavin Bryars
Gavin Bryars
Gavin Bryars
Gavin Bryars
Gavin Bryars, John Berger & John Christie
Gavin Bryars & Juan Munoz
Gavin Bryars Ensemble
Latvian Radio Choir
Karolos
Daniel Di Prinzio, Ihor Kordiuk
Nora von Marschall
Isabel Schicketanz
The Counterpoints
Narratio Quartet
Danbi Um; Juho Pohjonen
Lea Suter