Anthony Ritchie's "Stations: Symphony No.4" is a profound and introspective orchestral work that invites listeners into a deeply personal journey through human experience. Composed with meticulous detail and a keen ear for evocative soundscapes, this symphony is divided into fourteen distinct movements, each titled to reflect a different stage or emotion in life's journey. From the vulnerable "I am very small" to the haunting "Why have you abandoned me?", Ritchie crafts a narrative that is both universal and deeply intimate.
The symphony is notable for its use of the tam-tam as a recurring motif, creating a sonorous and purposeful echo that ties the movements together. This innovative use of percussion adds a layer of depth and texture to the composition, making it a standout piece in Ritchie's repertoire. The work was recognized for its excellence, being selected as one of the recordings of the year by MusicWeb International in 2015.
Recorded with the support of Atoll Records, "Stations: Symphony No.4" is a testament to Ritchie's skill as a composer and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. The symphony's duration of 42 minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of its themes, making it a compelling listen from start to finish. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate well-crafted artistry, this album offers a rich and rewarding experience.
(C) 2015 Wyastone Estate
Tracks
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": I. I am very smallAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": II. My TerrorsAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": III. I am a man who wakes up from a dreamAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": IV. She weepethAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": V. The young men have ceased from their musickAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": VI. Wide eyed, I have looked into the abyssAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": VII. My back curves like a whale breachingAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": VIII. The women are like a halo around meAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": IX. The wood is a hammerAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": X. Now I am as when I entered this worldAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": XI. My arm is a road through suffering and painAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": XII. Why have you abandoned me?Anthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": XIII. For one split second everything holds its breathAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
Symphony No. 4, "Stations": XIV. light flickering on the horizonAnthony Ritchie, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Tom Woods
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