Dive into the captivating world of contemporary classical music with Thomas Simaku's "Works for Violin & Piano," released on Naxos in 2019. This album is a testament to Simaku's unique blend of intensity and modernism, showcasing his visionary and entirely original compositional style. Born in Albania and trained there, Simaku's music reflects both his Eastern European roots and his innovative approach to composition.
The album features a diverse collection of chamber and instrumental works, all performed by the dedicatees, including the renowned violinist Peter Sheppard Skaerved and pianists Joseph Houston and Roderick Chadwick. The tracks span a variety of moods and techniques, from the folk-inspired "Albanian Folk Song 'Moj e Bukura Moré'" to the intricate and rhythmic "2 Esquisses."
Simaku's "Soliloquy V (Flauto Acerbo)" is part of a series that encompasses every instrumental family of the orchestra, highlighting his versatility and creativity. The album also includes tribute pieces like "Sound Tree," dedicated to the late Richard Robbins, and "The Flight of the Eagle," which soars with dynamic energy.
With a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album offers a rich and engaging listening experience, perfect for fans of contemporary classical music and those eager to explore the works of one of today's most fascinating composers.