March To Tonality

David Del Tredici's "March To Tonality" is a captivating exploration of contemporary classical music, released on October 1, 2017, under Albany Records. Spanning an impressive two hours and five minutes, this album is a testament to Del Tredici's mastery of composition and his unique ability to blend traditional and modern musical elements.

The album opens with the "Grand Trio," a four-movement work that showcases Del Tredici's virtuosity. The first two movements, "Aria - Vivace" and "Aria - Lento," contrast sharply, offering a dynamic range that sets the stage for the intricate "Fuga - Allegro" and the reflective "Reminiscence - Allegretto amabile."

Following the "Grand Trio," the "String Quartet No. 1" presents a three-part journey through "Experience," "Innocence," and a lively "Grosse Tarantella." These pieces are a delightful blend of complexity and accessibility, highlighting Del Tredici's ability to create deeply engaging music.

The album then takes a more somber turn with "Bullycide," a two-part work that addresses the tragic issue of bullying. The first part, "Overture - Cadenza - Fantasy - Grand - Fugue in 5 voices - Transition," builds tension and drama, while the second part, "The Names - Strangled Voices - Lament and Rage - Dreams for the 5 - In Peace - Postcript," offers a poignant and reflective conclusion.

The album concludes with "Dynamic Duo" and "The Felix Variations," both of which demonstrate Del Tredici's ability to create compelling and memorable music. "Dynamic Duo" is a lively and engaging piece that showcases the interplay between two instruments, while "The Felix Variations" is a tribute to Felix Mendelssohn, featuring a series of variations on a theme by the famous composer.

Throughout "March To Tonality," David Del Tredici's compositions are characterized by their rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and expressive melodies. This album is a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary classical music and a fantastic introduction to the work of one of today's most exciting composers.

David Del Tredici (1937-2023) was a pioneering American composer who left an indelible mark on the musical landscape with his unique blend of neo-romanticism and tonal experimentation. Born in Cloverdale, California, Del Tredici began his musical journey as a child prodigy on the piano, making his solo debut at the age of 17 with the San Francisco Symphony. His compositional career took off after studying at the University of California, Berkeley, and later at the Aspen Music Festival.

Del Tredici is best known for his "Alice" series, a collection of works inspired by Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland." His breakthrough piece, "Final Alice," premiered in 1976 and is credited with sparking a sea change in American music back to tonality, marking the birth of the neo-romantic movement. This work, along with others like "In Memory of a Summer Day," earned him the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1980.

Throughout his career, Del Tredici composed for nearly every major American and European orchestral ensemble, working with renowned conductors such as Michael Tilson Thomas, Leonard Slatkin, and Aaron Copland. His music, characterized by its emotional depth and innovative use of tonality, continues to inspire and influence musicians today. Del Tredici's legacy as a composer who fearlessly explored new musical territories and championed the return to tonality solidifies his place as a key figure in 20th-century music.

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March To Tonality

Album Description

Tracks

About David Del Tredici

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