Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Valentin Silvestrov's "Touching the Memory," a captivating collection of classical compositions that showcase the composer's unique voice and profound musicality. Released on November 30, 2018, under the Brilliant Classics label, this album spans a diverse range of genres and forms, offering a comprehensive overview of Silvestrov's post-modern piano music and orchestral works.
The album features a rich tapestry of pieces, including the evocative "4 Postludes for Piano and String Orchestra," the poetic "Moments of Poetry and Music for Soprano, Piano and String Orchestra," and the delicate "3 Waltzes for Piano, Op. 54," each paying homage to influential composers such as Arnold Schoenberg, Anton Webern, and Alban Berg. The ensemble Musiques Nouvelles, under the direction of Jean-Paul Dessy, and the renowned pianist Alexei Lubimov, bring these compositions to life with exquisite precision and sensitivity.
With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, "Touching the Memory" is a testament to Silvestrov's mastery of form and expression. From the gentle, almost hesitant opening of the "4 Postludes" to the serene beauty of the "6 Pieces for String Orchestra," each track invites you to explore the depths of Silvestrov's musical imagination. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
2018 Brilliant Classics2018 Brilliant Classics
Tracks
4 Postludes for Piano and String Orchestra: I. Larghetto, AndanteValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
4 Postludes for Piano and String Orchestra: II. ModeratoValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
4 Postludes for Piano and String Orchestra: III. LarghettoValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
4 Postludes for Piano and String Orchestra: IV. LarghettoValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
Moments of Poetry and Music for Soprano, Piano and String Orchestra: I. "Keine Stimme" Poem by Paul CelanValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov, Elise Gäbele
Moments of Poetry and Music for Soprano, Piano and String Orchestra: II. Melody-PostscriptumValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 Postludes for Piano, Op. 64: I. AndantinoValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 Postludes for Piano, Op. 64: II. AdagioValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 Postludes for Piano, Op. 64: III. LarghettoValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
Epitaph for Piano and String OrchestraValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 Waltzes for Piano, Op. 54: I. Hommage à A. SchönbergValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 Waltzes for Piano, Op. 54: II. Hommage à A. WebernValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 Waltzes for Piano, Op. 54: III. Hommage à A. BergValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
2 Elegies for Piano, Op. 60: I. ModeratoValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
2 Elegies for Piano, Op. 60: II. AndanteValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
6 Pieces for String Orchestra: I. Serenade of ChildhoodValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
6 Pieces for String Orchestra: II. ElegyValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
6 Pieces for String Orchestra: III. Farewell WaltzValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
6 Pieces for String Orchestra: IV. PostludeValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
6 Pieces for String Orchestra: V. Autumn SerenadeValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
6 Pieces for String Orchestra: VI. PastoralValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 pieces for Piano, Op. 27: I. ElegyValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 pieces for Piano, Op. 27: II. IntermezzoValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
3 pieces for Piano, Op. 27: III. SerenadeValentin Silvestrov, Musiques Nouvelles, Jean-Paul Dessy, Alexei Lubimov
Valentin Silvestrov, born in Kyiv in 1937, is a Ukrainian composer and pianist whose contemporary classical music has earned him international acclaim. Beginning his musical journey at the age of 15, Silvestrov's path was unconventional, studying civil engineering by day and piano by night before dedicating himself fully to composition. His works, ranging from avant-garde to sacred music, are known for their unique blend of traditional tonal and modal techniques, creating a delicate tapestry of dramatic and emotional textures. Silvestrov's music is often described as mentally challenging yet aurally agreeable, with a timeless quality that resonates deeply with audiences. Throughout his career, he has undergone significant stylistic shifts, moving from experimental avant-garde to a quieter, more harmonious style that he sees as a transition from the 20th to the 21st century. His compositions, such as the heart-wrenching "Hymn" and his symphonies, reflect his deep connection to the past and his ability to evoke a sense of reminiscence. Despite his profound impact on the music world, Silvestrov remains a quiet yet major voice in contemporary classical music.
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Valentin Silvestrov
