Philip Glass: Motion Picture

Philip Glass: Motion Picture is a captivating collection of Philip Glass's iconic film scores, masterfully arranged for piano and cello octet by Michael Riesman. This album, released in 2018 under the Orange Mountain Music label, features the stunning performances of Maki Namekawa on piano and the Cello Octet Amsterdam, who together bring a rich yet intimate tone to Glass's minimalist compositions.

The album showcases suites from two of Glass's most celebrated film scores: "The Hours" and "Dracula." These arrangements, commissioned in 2017, offer a fresh perspective on Glass's music, highlighting the intricate interplay between piano and cello. The Hours Suite, with its three movements, and the Dracula Suite, featuring nine movements, provide a comprehensive journey through Glass's distinctive minimalist style, characterized by its repetitive patterns and hypnotic rhythms.

With a duration of 54 minutes, this album is a testament to Glass's enduring influence in the realms of classical and neoclassical music. The meticulous arrangements and the ensemble's cohesive performance make "Motion Picture" a standout release, perfect for both longtime fans of Philip Glass and those new to his work. The album's genres span minimalism, classical, and neoclassical, ensuring a diverse and engaging listening experience.

Philip Glass, born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1937, is a pioneering American composer and pianist whose innovative approach to music has made him one of the most influential figures in contemporary classical music. Emerging in the 1960s, Glass is renowned for his minimalist compositions, characterized by repetitive phrases and shifting layers that create a mesmerizing and immersive sonic experience. His work, often associated with the minimalist movement, has evolved stylistically over the years, earning him a place among the most celebrated living composers.

Glass's discography is vast and diverse, spanning operas like "Akhnaten" and "Satyagraha," film scores, and solo piano works. His 1981 album "Glassworks" is a testament to his ability to create accessible yet profound music, showcasing his unique compositional style. Throughout his career, Glass has collaborated with renowned filmmakers and artists, further cementing his status as a creative original. His music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, making him a household name in the realm of modern classical music.