"Point and Line" is a captivating journey through the etudes of Claude Debussy and Toshio Hosokawa, performed by the virtuoso pianist Momo Kodama. Released on ECM New Series, this album showcases Kodama's impeccable technique and her ability to evoke crystalline sounds, making it a standout in her discography. The album features a unique blend of Debussy's 12 late études and six etudes by Hosokawa, creating a dialogue between two master composers from different eras and cultures. Recorded in January 2016 at the Historischer Reitstadel in Neumarkt, the album benefits from the exceptional engineering of Stephan Schellmann and the production expertise of Manfred Eicher.
Momo Kodama, born in Osaka and educated at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Paris, brings a global perspective to her music, reflecting her international upbringing and career. Her performances have taken her to stages around the world, from Israel to Brazil, while maintaining strong ties to her Japanese roots. This album, her second for ECM, follows the critically acclaimed "La vallée des cloches," and continues her exploration of adventurous and evocative repertoire.
The etudes on "Point and Line" are not just technical exercises but deeply expressive works that explore a wide range of dynamics, lyricism, and poetic design. Debussy's etudes, composed towards the end of his life, point towards the future of music, while Hosokawa's works, dedicated to various individuals including Kodama herself, showcase his unique voice and innovative approach to composition. The album's title, taken from one of Hosokawa's etudes, also hints at the precision and clarity of Kodama's playing, making it a compelling listen for classical music enthusiasts. With a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, "Point and Line" offers a rich and rewarding experience, highlighting the artistic vision and technical brilliance of Momo Kodama.
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