Corigliano: Pied Pipe Fantasy

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of John Corigliano's "Pied Piper Fantasy," a captivating album released in 1987 under the prestigious RCA Red Seal label. This 45-minute masterpiece features the renowned flutist James Galway, showcasing Corigliano's distinctive compositional style and Galway's virtuosic flute playing.

The album is a reimagining of the classic Pied Piper tale, divided into seven evocative movements. It begins with "Sunrise and the Piper's Song," setting the stage for the fantastical journey ahead. The subsequent tracks, including "The Rats," "Battle with the Rats," and "War Cadenza," build tension and drama, culminating in the triumphant "The Piper's Victory." The album concludes with "The Burghers' Chorale" and "The Children's March," providing a satisfying resolution to the narrative.

In addition to the suite, the album also includes "Voyage for Flute and String Orchestra," a beautiful standalone piece that further highlights Galway's artistry and Corigliano's compositional prowess. This album is a testament to Corigliano's skill in blending narrative and music, creating a compelling and engaging listening experience. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate beautiful melodies, "Pied Piper Fantasy" is sure to captivate and inspire.

John Corigliano, born in 1938, is a celebrated American composer whose extensive body of work spans symphonies, operas, concertos, and film scores. With over 100 compositions to his name, Corigliano has garnered prestigious accolades, including a Pulitzer Prize, five Grammy Awards, a Grawemeyer Award, and an Academy Award. His music is known for its tonal accessibility and expressive depth, drawing from a wide range of influences. Notable works include his Symphony No. 1, inspired by the AIDS epidemic, and the film score for "The Red Violin," which he later adapted into the "Red Violin" Concerto. Corigliano's compositions often pay homage to the past while pushing the boundaries of contemporary classical music, making him one of the most celebrated composers of the past few decades. Beyond his composing, Corigliano is also dedicated to education, teaching composition at The Juilliard School.