Dive into the captivating world of contemporary classical music with "The Music of Joseph Schwantner," a remarkable album released in 1997 under the RCA Red Seal label. This collection showcases the brilliance of Pulitzer Prize-winning American composer Joseph Schwantner, offering a rich tapestry of instrumental works that highlight his unique compositional voice.
The album features five standout pieces, including the dynamic "Velocities (Moto perpetuo)" for solo marimba, performed with virtuosity by Evelyn Glennie. The Concerto for Percussion and Orchestra is a three-movement masterpiece, with each section—"Con forza," "Misterioso," and "Ritmo con brio"—exhibiting Schwantner's mastery of rhythm, texture, and orchestral color. Additionally, "New Morning for the World: 'Daybreak of Freedom'" is a poignant and evocative work that pays homage to the spirit of freedom and hope.
Conducted by the esteemed Leonard Slatkin and performed by the National Symphony Orchestra, this album is a testament to the collaborative brilliance of these world-class musicians. With a total runtime of just over an hour, "The Music of Joseph Schwantner" is a compelling exploration of modern orchestral and percussion repertoire, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.