John Casken's 2012 release, "Casken: Darting the Skiff, Maharal Dreaming, Cello Concerto & Vaganza," is a captivating journey through the composer's evocative and diverse musical landscapes. This album showcases Casken's ability to blend lyrical depth with orchestral brilliance, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that span from intimate chamber works to grand orchestral pieces.
The album opens with "Darting the Skiff," a string orchestra piece that sets the tone with its delicate and fluid movements. Following this is "Maharal Dreaming," an orchestral fantasy inspired by Casken's opera "Golem." This piece is a vivid and imaginative exploration, drawing the listener into a world of rich orchestration and dramatic storytelling.
The centerpiece of the album is the "Cello Concerto," a work commissioned by and dedicated to the renowned cellist Heinrich Schiff. This concerto is a testament to Casken's mastery of the cello's expressive range, with its four distinct movements—"Introduction," "Leaves of Farewell," "Fell Wrapped in Song," and "From Winter's Tree"—each offering a unique emotional and musical journey. The second part of the concerto, "On Folds of Stone" and "Through Silvern Air," continues to explore the depth and versatility of the cello, accompanied by the chamber orchestra.
The album concludes with "Vaganza," a six-movement orchestral suite that serves as a glittering showpiece. From the lively "Display" and "Archaic Dance" to the contemplative "Interlude - Puppets I" and the dramatic "Eructavit in Vaganza," this suite is a celebration of orchestral color and dynamism. The final movements, "Parade" and "Display," bring the album to a thrilling close, showcasing Casken's ability to craft memorable and impactful musical moments.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a testament to John Casken's compositional prowess and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Whether you are a fan of classical music or simply looking to explore new musical territories, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
Vinylscout
John Casken
