Acts of Beauty/Exit No Exit

"Acts of Beauty/Exit No Exit," released in 2007, is the 55th album by the renowned composer Michael Nyman, marking his eighth release on his own label, Michael Nyman Records. This captivating work is a double album that couples two world premiere recordings, each offering a unique sonic experience.

The first half, "Acts of Beauty," is a mesmerizing song cycle that delves into the nature of art and beauty through texts by various writers. The compositions draw from a diverse range of sources, including a 1556 text by Vincenzo Cartari, Kurt Schwitters, and Dziga Vertov's urban environments, and Martial's epigrams. Performed by the enchanting vocals of Cristina Zavalloni and the talented ensemble Sentieri Selvaggi, this segment was recorded at Officine Meccaniche in Milan and mixed at the legendary Abbey Road Studios.

The second half, "Exit No Exit," originally conceived as 'Beckham Crosses, Nyman Scores,' is a homage to the England football team, initially part of a BBC Radio 3 documentary on the 2002 World Cup. This segment features a series of piano pieces that showcase Nyman's signature minimalist style, recorded at Angel Studios in London.

Throughout the album, Michael Nyman's distinctive blend of classical forms with minimalist and contemporary techniques is evident. The compositions are intricate and thought-provoking, offering a rich listening experience that highlights Nyman's versatility and innovation. With a duration of 51 minutes, "Acts of Beauty/Exit No Exit" is a compelling addition to any classical or minimalist music collection.

Michael Nyman is a renowned English composer, pianist, and musicologist celebrated for his innovative and prolific output across various genres. Born in London, Nyman is best known for his distinctive film scores, notably the multi-platinum soundtrack to Jane Campion's "The Piano," which blends classical elements with the energy of rock and minimalism. His compositions often combine Western classical music with a high-octane, propulsive style, earning him a reputation as one of the UK's most celebrated contemporary composers. Beyond film, Nyman has written numerous operas, concerti, string quartets, and chamber works, many of which are performed by his own Michael Nyman Band. His restless creativity extends to conducting, writing, photography, and film-making, making him a versatile and influential figure in the music world. Nyman's unique approach to composition, often described as "pump-action Purcell," continues to captivate audiences and critics alike.