Dive into the avant-garde world of Conlon Nancarrow with "Late and Unknown: Works on Rolls," a captivating collection of rare and previously unheard compositions recorded on the composer's own player-pianos. This 2012 release from Wergo offers a unique glimpse into Nancarrow's innovative approach to music, showcasing his mastery of the player-piano as both an instrument and a tool for experimentation.
The album features a variety of works, including the intricate "Three Canons for Ursula" and the complex "Study No. 48," demonstrating Nancarrow's genius for creating intricate, interlocking rhythmic patterns. Each piece is a testament to his pioneering use of the player-piano, an instrument he customized to achieve his distinctive timbre, reminiscent of a harpsichord.
"Late and Unknown: Works on Rolls" is not just a compilation of music; it's a journey through Nancarrow's creative process. The album includes works that document his practice of transforming old rolls into new compositions, such as "For Ligeti" and the "Unnumbered Study." This collection is a must-listen for fans of avant-garde music and anyone interested in the intersection of technology and art. With a duration of 58 minutes, it's a rich and rewarding exploration of one of the most original minds in 20th-century music.