Frederic Rzewski: The People United Will Never Be Defeated & 4 Hands

Frederic Rzewski's "The People United Will Never Be Defeated & 4 Hands" is a captivating exploration of minimalism and avant-garde classical piano music. Released on September 11, 2015, under the Cedille label, this album is a testament to Rzewski's innovative compositional style and his ability to blend political themes with musical expression.

The centerpiece of the album is the monumental "The People United Will Never Be Defeated!" a series of 36 variations on the Chilean protest song "¡El pueblo unido jamás será vencido!" composed in 1975. This piece is a powerful musical statement, originally created to represent the struggles of the Chilean resistance and popularized by the group Inti-Illimani. Each variation offers a unique interpretation of the theme, showcasing Rzewski's versatility and depth as a composer.

Complementing this monumental work are the "4 Hands" pieces, performed by the renowned duo Ursula Oppens and Jerome Lowenthal. These pieces add another layer of complexity and richness to the album, demonstrating Rzewski's mastery of both solo and collaborative piano works.

With a duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, the album is a substantial and engaging listen, perfect for fans of experimental and minimalist classical music. Rzewski's distinctive style, characterized by its rhythmic complexity and political undertones, is showcased throughout, making this album a significant addition to any classical music collection.