Dive into the captivating world of contemporary classical music with Thomas Adès' "Living Toys," a seminal work that showcases the composer's early genius. Released in 1998 under the Warner Classics label, this album is a testament to Adès' prowess as a pianist and composer, featuring a collection of his most celebrated works from the early 1990s.
The album opens with "Living Toys, Op.9," a multi-movement suite that demonstrates Adès' ability to blend intricate composition with playful, almost whimsical themes. Each movement, from "Angels" to "Playing Funerals," offers a unique perspective, making it a standout piece in Adès' repertoire. Following this is "Arcadiana, Op.12," a suite that evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing, with pieces like "Venezia notturna" and "O Albion" highlighting Adès' lyrical side.
"Sonata da Caccia, Op.11" adds a touch of virtuosity, with its demanding piano parts and dynamic shifts, while "The Origin of the Harp, Op.13" offers a more introspective and atmospheric experience. The album concludes with "Gefriolsæ me, Op. 3b," a work that showcases Adès' early compositional style.
Born in London in 1971, Thomas Adès studied piano and composition at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and by the late 1990s, he had already established himself as a significant voice in contemporary classical music. "Living Toys" is a remarkable collection of works that highlight Adès' versatility and innovation, making it a essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The album features performances by notable musicians, including the Endellion String Quartet, ensuring a high standard of interpretation. With a duration of approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): I. Angels -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): II. Aurochs -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): BALETT -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): III Militiamen -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): IV. H.A.L.'s Death -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): BATTLE -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): V. Playing Funerals -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): TABLETThomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): I. Venezia notturnaThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): II. Das klinget so herrlich, das Iklinget so schönThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): III. Auf dem Wasser zu singenThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): IV. Et....(tango mortale)Thomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): V. L'Embarquement -Thomas Adès
Adès: Arcadiana, Op. 12: VI. O AlbionThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): VII. LetheThomas Adès
Sonata da Caccia, Op.11 (1993): I. Gravement -Thomas Adès, Michael Niesemann/Andrew Clark/Thomas Adès
Sonata da Caccia, Op.11 (1993): II. Gayëment -Thomas Adès, Michael Niesemann/Andrew Clark/Thomas Adès
Sonata da Caccia, Op.11 (1993): III. NaïvementThomas Adès, Michael Niesemann/Andrew Clark/Thomas Adès
Adès: Sonata da caccia, Op. 11: IV. GalamentThomas Adès, Andrew Clark, Michael Niesemann
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): I. Dolcissimo ed espressivoThomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): II. Largo con motoThomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): III. SpettraleThomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): IV. [untitled]Thomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
Adès: Gefriolsae me, Op. 3bThomas Adès, Choir of King's College, Cambridge, Robert Quinney, Stephen Cleobury
Thomas Adès is a distinguished British composer, pianist and conductor, born in London in 1971. Renowned for his multifaceted talents, Adès has made a significant impact on the classical music scene with his innovative compositions and dynamic performances. His works, which include the acclaimed operas 'Powder Her Face' and 'The Tempest', as well as orchestral pieces like 'Asyla' and 'Polaris', have garnered international recognition and praise. Adès' compositions have been featured in prominent polls, such as the 2017 Classic Voice poll of the greatest works of art music since 2000. He is also known for his collaborations with leading orchestras and opera companies worldwide, including his role as Artistic Partner of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Adès' musical journey began with studies at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where he honed his skills as both a pianist and a composer. His contributions to the world of classical music have earned him prestigious honours, such as the Royal Philharmonic Society Gold Medal.
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Thomas Adès
