Howard Skempton: 50 Preludes and Fugues, Book 1

Dive into the intricate world of contemporary organ music with Carson Cooman's latest release, "Howard Skempton: 50 Preludes and Fugues, Book 1." This captivating album, set for release on March 31, 2024, under the Carson Cooman label, offers a deep exploration of minimalist compositions that showcase the profound skill and creativity of both Carson Cooman and Howard Skempton. Comprising 25 meticulously crafted preludes and fugues, this album is a testament to the enduring beauty and complexity of the organ as a solo instrument.

Each of the 25 tracks in this collection is a standalone masterpiece, yet they collectively form a cohesive journey through the 24 major and minor keys, with an additional entry that ingeniously incorporates the notes B-A-C-H and the initials of the composer. This structural ingenuity is a hallmark of Howard Skempton's compositional style, and Carson Cooman's performance brings these pieces to life with remarkable precision and depth.

Recorded on the historic Mathis Orgelbau organ at the Pfarrkirche St. Peter und Paul in Görlitz, Germany, the album benefits from the rich acoustic environment and the organ's exceptional craftsmanship. The result is a sonic experience that is both intimate and expansive, inviting listeners to appreciate the nuances of each composition.

With a total duration of one hour and two minutes, "Howard Skempton: 50 Preludes and Fugues, Book 1" is a substantial and rewarding listen. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of organ music or a curious newcomer, this album promises to enrich your musical horizons and deepen your appreciation for the art of composition and performance.

Carson Cooman is a dynamic and prolific American composer and organist, renowned for his extensive catalog of over hundreds of works that span a wide array of forms and genres. Born in Rochester, New York, in 1982, Cooman's musical journey began at a young age, inspired by his grandmother, a music teacher. His compositions range from intimate solo pieces and hymn tunes to grand operas and symphonies, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit. Cooman's music has resonated globally, performed on all six inhabited continents in venues as prestigious as Carnegie Hall and as unique as the basket of a hot air balloon. As the Composer in Residence at the Memorial Church, Harvard University, since 2006, Cooman continues to push the boundaries of contemporary music, making him a standout figure in the classical music world. His works, often described as harmonically advanced, have been featured on over forty recordings, ensuring his music reaches a wide and appreciative audience.