Dive into the avant-garde world of Iannis Xenakis with his seminal work, "Oresteïa," a groundbreaking opera that pushes the boundaries of classical music. Originally composed in 1965 and 1966, this piece is a bold reinterpretation of Aeschylus' classic trilogy, crafted for a chorus and twelve instrumentalists. The album, released on January 1, 2002, by naïve classique, spans approximately 50 minutes and is a testament to Xenakis' innovative spirit.
"Oresteïa" is not just a musical experience; it's a journey through the experimental and avant-garde genres, showcasing Xenakis' unique compositional style. The opera is composed for a children's choir, mixed choir, and an ensemble of twelve instrumentalists, including a piccolo flute, oboe, clarinets, tuba, percussion, and cello. The intricate layering of voices and instruments creates a rich, textured soundscape that is as intellectually stimulating as it is aurally captivating.
The album features five tracks, each titled after a segment of the Oresteia: "Agamemnon," "Kassandra," "Les Choephores," and "Les Euménides." The performances, recorded during the Festival Musica Strasbourg in 1987, are brought to life by an ensemble of talented musicians, including Spiros Sakkas, Sylvio Gualda, and Dominique Debart.
Xenakis' "Oresteïa" is a significant work in the realm of contemporary classical music, offering a deep dive into the composer's experimental techniques and his unique approach to storytelling through sound. Whether you're a seasoned fan of avant-garde music or a curious explorer of new sonic territories, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Vinylscout