Del Tredici: Syzygy/Vintage Alice/ Songs

"Del Tredici: Syzygy/Vintage Alice/Songs" is a captivating journey through the eclectic and innovative mind of composer David Del Tredici. This 2003 release on Deutsche Grammophon is a testament to Del Tredici's unique voice in the world of contemporary classical music, blending elements of avant-garde, minimalism, and a touch of whimsy.

The album features a diverse range of works, showcasing Del Tredici's versatility and depth. "Syzygy," composed in 1968, is a standout piece that combines soprano, horn, chimes, and chamber ensemble in a mesmerizing exploration of sound and texture. The album also includes a selection of songs based on poems by James Joyce, demonstrating Del Tredici's ability to set text in a way that is both evocative and musically rich.

One of the highlights of the album is "Vintage Alice," a live recording that brings to life the whimsical world of Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland." This suite is a delightful blend of humor, irony, and musical ingenuity, performed with virtuosity by soprano Lucy Shelton and the ASKO Ensemble under the baton of conductor Oliver Knussen.

With a total duration of over an hour, this album offers a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned fan of contemporary classical music or a curious newcomer, "Del Tredici: Syzygy/Vintage Alice/Songs" promises to engage and inspire. The album's diverse repertoire and high-quality performances make it a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.

David Del Tredici (1937-2023) was a pioneering American composer who left an indelible mark on the musical landscape with his unique blend of neo-romanticism and tonal experimentation. Born in Cloverdale, California, Del Tredici began his musical journey as a child prodigy on the piano, making his solo debut at the age of 17 with the San Francisco Symphony. His compositional career took off after studying at the University of California, Berkeley, and later at the Aspen Music Festival.

Del Tredici is best known for his "Alice" series, a collection of works inspired by Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland." His breakthrough piece, "Final Alice," premiered in 1976 and is credited with sparking a sea change in American music back to tonality, marking the birth of the neo-romantic movement. This work, along with others like "In Memory of a Summer Day," earned him the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1980.

Throughout his career, Del Tredici composed for nearly every major American and European orchestral ensemble, working with renowned conductors such as Michael Tilson Thomas, Leonard Slatkin, and Aaron Copland. His music, characterized by its emotional depth and innovative use of tonality, continues to inspire and influence musicians today. Del Tredici's legacy as a composer who fearlessly explored new musical territories and championed the return to tonality solidifies his place as a key figure in 20th-century music.

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Del Tredici: Syzygy/Vintage Alice/ Songs

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About David Del Tredici

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