Ned Rorem's "Chamber Music with Flute" is a captivating exploration of the composer's oeuvre, showcasing his remarkable ability to convey emotional depth through the delicate and expressive tones of the flute. Released on August 2, 2011, under the Naxos label, this album spans a variety of genres, including neoclassical and avant-garde, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
The album features a range of compositions, from the lyrical and evocative "Mountain Song" to the dramatic and poignant selections from "Romeo and Juliet." Rorem's "Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano" adds a layer of complexity and richness, while the "Book of Hours" series provides a meditative journey through the day. The "4 Prayers" conclude the album with a reflective and introspective tone.
Rorem's clarity of emotional expression is perfectly suited to the 'breathy gold' of the flute, making this album a standout in his discography. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate the beauty of the flute, "Chamber Music with Flute" is a must-listen, offering a profound and engaging exploration of Rorem's musical genius.
2011 Naxos2011 Naxos
Tracks
Mountain Song (Version for flute and piano)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Mihae Lee
Romeo and Juliet: I. I ne're saw true beauty till This nightNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: II. Queen Mab hath been with youNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: III. How silver-sweet sound lovers' tongues by nightNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: IV. O serpent heart …Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: V. … Sad hours seem longNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: VI. … It was the nightingaleNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: VII. Come weep with meNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: VIII. … Empty tigersNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Romeo and Juliet: IX. … Never was a story of more woeNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, David Leisner
Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano: I. Largo misterioso - AllegroNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ronald Thomas, Mihae Lee
Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano: II. LargoNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ronald Thomas, Mihae Lee
Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano: III. AndanteNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ronald Thomas, Mihae Lee
Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano: IV. Allegro moltoNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ronald Thomas, Mihae Lee
Book of Hours: I. Matins (Nocturne)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
Book of Hours: II. Lauds (Sunrise)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
Book of Hours: III. Prime (6am)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
Book of Hours: IV. Terce (Mid-morning)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
Book of Hours: V. Sext (Noon)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
Book of Hours: VI. None (Mid-afternooon)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
Book of Hours: VII. Vespers (Evensong)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
Book of Hours: VIII. Compline (Nightfall)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Ann Hobson Pilot
4 Prayers: First Prayer: Quarter note = 60, without expressionNed Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Mihae Lee
4 Prayers: Second Prayer: Half note = 50Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Mihae Lee
4 Prayers: Third Prayer: Loud and Fast, quarter note = 144 (a palindrome)Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Mihae Lee
4 Prayers: Last Prayer: Quarter note = 69Ned Rorem, Fenwick Smith, Mihae Lee