Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alan Hovhaness, a luminary of 20th-century music, with the release of "Hovhaness: Complete Sonatas and Sonatinas Vol.1." This album, released on December 5, 2011, under the Taukay label, is a testament to Hovhaness's unique compositional style, blending minimalism with a profound sense of mysticism and beauty. Spanning a duration of 50 minutes, this collection features a diverse array of piano sonatas and sonatinas, each offering a distinct exploration of Hovhaness's musical genius.
The album opens with the Sonata Ricercare, Op. 12, a three-movement work that showcases Hovhaness's intricate contrapuntal writing. The Sonata Catamount, Op. 345, follows, offering a more expansive and dynamic experience with its five movements, including the evocative "Grand View Farm" and the tender "Love Song." The Sonata, Op. 399, presents a more introspective journey, with movements titled "Elegy," "Con amore," and "Jhala," reflecting Hovhaness's ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
The Sonata Cougar Mountain, Op. 390, adds a touch of nature-inspired imagery to the collection, with movements like "Mountain Lament" and "Cougar Mountain Dance." The album concludes with the Sonata, Op. 120, a concise yet impactful three-movement work.
Hovhaness's music is known for its almost trance-like quality, drawing the listener into a world of serene beauty and contemplation. This album is a perfect introduction to his piano works, offering a comprehensive overview of his compositional style and artistic vision. Whether you're a seasoned fan of minimalism or a newcomer to Hovhaness's music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout