John Harbison: Concertos for String Instruments

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, intricate world of John Harbison's compositions with this stunning collection of concertos for string instruments. Released on BMOP/sound in October 2020, this album showcases Harbison's mastery of the avant-garde genre, offering a captivating journey through his innovative and expressive works.

Spanning a duration of one hour and three minutes, the album features three remarkable concertos composed between 1988 and 2009. The Concerto for Viola and Orchestra, divided into four movements, highlights the viola's expressive range with its dynamic and evocative melodies. The Double Concerto for Violin, Violoncello, and Orchestra, also in three movements, showcases the interplay between the violin and cello, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The Concerto for Bass Viol and Orchestra, commissioned by the International Society of Bassists, is a standout piece with its three distinct movements, each offering a unique exploration of the bass viol's capabilities.

John Harbison, a widely recorded composer on leading labels, brings his distinctive voice to this collection, making it a essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Harbison's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album promises an enriching and engaging listening experience.

13 oktober 2020

(P) 2020 BMOP/sound

About John Harbison

John Harbison is a distinguished American composer and conductor, renowned for his expansive and diverse musical catalog. Born into a musical family in Orange, New Jersey, Harbison's journey in music began early, studying multiple instruments and composing from a young age. His extensive body of work includes three operas, seven symphonies, twelve concerti, six string quartets, and a wealth of sacred music, song cycles, and chamber works. Harbison's compositions are celebrated for their exceptional resourcefulness and expressive range, earning him prestigious awards such as the Pulitzer Prize and a MacArthur Fellowship. Beyond his composing, Harbison has been a influential educator, teaching at esteemed institutions like MIT and Tanglewood, and serving as the founder and principal guest conductor of Emmanuel Music in Boston. His music, which spans genres from opera to jazz, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.