Elliott Carter's "Carter: A Symphony of 3 Orchestras & A Mirror on Which to Dwell" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde and chamber music, released in 1980 under Sony Classical. This album is a testament to Carter's innovative compositional style and his ability to push the boundaries of classical music.
The album opens with "A Symphony of Three Orchestras," a complex and intricate piece that showcases Carter's mastery of orchestration. The symphony is followed by "A Mirror On Which To Dwell - Six Poems of Elizabeth Bishop," a song cycle that sets six poems by Elizabeth Bishop to music. Each of the six movements offers a unique interpretation of Bishop's poetry, with Carter's music serving as a mirror that reflects and amplifies the themes and emotions of the poems.
The album's duration is a concise 35 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to Carter's music for those new to his work. The performances are exceptional, with each note executed with precision and sensitivity. Despite the complexity of the music, the performers bring a sense of clarity and coherence to the pieces, making them accessible and engaging.
This album is a must-listen for fans of avant-garde and chamber music, as well as for those interested in the intersection of poetry and music. Elliott Carter's "Carter: A Symphony of 3 Orchestras & A Mirror on Which to Dwell" is a remarkable achievement that continues to inspire and challenge listeners.