Gavin Bryars: A Native Hill

Album Description

"Gavin Bryars: A Native Hill" is a profound and introspective exploration of minimalism and avant-garde composition, brought to life by the renowned composer Gavin Bryars and performed by the esteemed professional chamber choir, The Crossing, under the direction of conductor Donald Nally. Released on April 9, 2021, via Navona Records, this album is a twelve-movement musical journey inspired by the words of Wendell Berry, translated into a rich tapestry of sound by Bryars.

The album spans a duration of one hour and eight minutes, offering a deep dive into the intricate layers of Bryars' compositional style. Each of the twelve tracks, titled "A Native Hill: No. 1" through "A Native Hill: No. 12," delves into different facets of nature and introspection, from "The Sense of the Past" to "At Peace." The unaccompanied voices of The Crossing weave together to create a hauntingly beautiful and thought-provoking experience.

Gavin Bryars, known for his diverse musical background—from his early career as a jazz bassist to his collaborations with improvisers like Derek Bailey and Tony Oxley—brings a unique perspective to this work. "A Native Hill" is a testament to his ability to blend minimalist and avant-garde elements, resulting in a piece that is both innovative and deeply resonant.

This album is not just a collection of tracks but a cohesive narrative that invites listeners to contemplate the beauty and complexity of the natural world and the human experience. Whether you're a fan of minimalist music, avant-garde composition, or simply appreciate the power of the human voice, "Gavin Bryars: A Native Hill" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

9 april 2021

2021 Navona

About Gavin Bryars

Gavin Bryars is a versatile and influential British composer and double bassist, born in Yorkshire in 1943. His musical journey began in the early 1960s as a jazz bassist, collaborating with improvisers like Derek Bailey. Over the decades, Bryars has explored a wide range of genres, including jazz, free improvisation, minimalism, historicism, avant-garde, and experimental music. His compositions are known for their unique, often hypnotic qualities, and his approach to music is deeply personal, with each piece written specifically for the performers who bring it to life. Bryars' work has inspired generations of artists, notably with his seminal piece "The Sinking of the Titanic," released on Brian Eno's Obscure imprint. His innovative contributions to music have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Innovation Award at The Ivors Classical Awards. Bryars' music is a testament to his enduring creativity and his ability to continually evolve and surprise.