Feldman: Beckett Material

Morton Feldman's "Beckett Material" is a captivating exploration of minimalism, avant-garde, and drone genres, released under the Wergo label in April 2016. This album features three rarely recorded works—"Orchestra," "Elemental Procedures," and "Routine Investigations"—all composed between April and July of an unspecified year. Conducted by Peter Rundel, the album spans 43 minutes of intricate and immersive soundscapes.

Feldman's compositions are known for their subtle complexities and extended durations, and "Beckett Material" is no exception. The album derives its name from the "Beckett material"—a long, continuous melodic line that Feldman initially planned to use in a later opera based on the works of Samuel Beckett. This connection adds a layer of intellectual and artistic depth to the listening experience.

The pieces on this album are characterized by their slow evolution and meticulous attention to detail, inviting the audience to engage deeply with the subtle shifts and textures in the music. Feldman's unique approach to composition, blending minimalism with avant-garde techniques, creates a sound that is both meditative and intellectually stimulating.

"Beckett Material" is a testament to Morton Feldman's enduring influence on contemporary classical music, offering a profound and contemplative listening experience that showcases his distinctive style and innovative approach to composition.