John Adams: Scheherazade.2

John Adams, the renowned composer, presents a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of modern storytelling and female empowerment with his dramatic symphony, "Scheherazade.2." This 47-minute, four-movement masterpiece is a striking blend of minimalism, avant-garde, and operatic elements, showcasing Adams' unique compositional voice. Inspired by the ancient tales of One Thousand and One Nights, Adams reimagines the iconic storyteller Scheherazade as a symbol of contemporary women facing oppression and adversity.

Commissioned by prestigious orchestras including the New York Philharmonic and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, "Scheherazade.2" was written specifically for the virtuoso violinist Leila Josefowicz, who delivers a stunning performance alongside the St. Louis Symphony, conducted by David Robertson. The work is a tour de force for the solo violin, with Josefowicz's breathtaking technique and expressive playing taking center stage.

The album features a rich orchestration, including the distinctive sound of the cimbalom, a hammered dulcimer, which adds an exotic and evocative layer to the music. Adams' score is both humorous and provocative, weaving together imaginative and virtuosic passages with a serious underlying message about women's power and resilience. The four movements—"Tale of the Wise Young Woman-Pursuit by the True Believers," "A Long Desire (Love Scene)," "Scheherazade and the Men with Beards," and "Escape, Flight, Sanctuary"—each tell a part of Scheherazade's modern tale, painting a vivid and dramatic narrative.

Released on September 30, 2016, by Nonesuch Records, "Scheherazade.2" is a testament to John Adams' enduring creativity and his ability to engage with contemporary themes through his music. The album is a powerful and engaging listen, offering a unique perspective on the timeless story of Scheherazade and the enduring relevance of her tale.