Vasks, P.: Gramata Cellam / Partita / Episodi E Canto Perpetuo

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Pēteris Vasks with his compelling album "Gramata Cellam / Partita / Episodi E Canto Perpetuo." Released on January 1, 2000, under the SWR Classic label, this album is a testament to Vasks' mastery of minimalism and opera, blending these genres into a harmonious and thought-provoking collection.

Spanning just over 56 minutes, the album is divided into three distinct suites, each offering a unique journey through Vasks' distinctive musical landscape. The "Grāmata čellam" suite opens with "I. Marcatissimo" and closes with "II. Dolcissimo," showcasing the rich, resonant tones of the cello. The "Partita" suite follows, featuring four movements that range from the contemplative "Preludio. Andante" to the lively "Tocata: Allegretto." The final suite, "Episodi e canto perpetuo," is a tour de force of eight movements, each with its own character, from the intense "Crescendo" to the reflective "Canto perpetuo: Dolcissimo ma molto espressivo."

Vasks' compositions are known for their depth and emotional resonance, and this album is no exception. Whether you're a longtime fan of minimalism and opera or a newcomer to these genres, "Gramata Cellam / Partita / Episodi E Canto Perpetuo" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Dive in and discover the profound and evocative music of Pēteris Vasks.

Pēteris Vasks, born in 1946, is one of Latvia's most renowned and internationally acclaimed composers, celebrated for his significant contributions to academic music in the late 20th and 21st centuries. His works, which span genres such as minimalism and opera, have earned him multiple Great Music Awards and a place among the most respected composers in Europe. Vasks' music is deeply philosophical, often exploring the spiritual and existential dimensions of sound. He views music as the most divine of arts, believing that it can effortlessly connect to the divine and express the spirit. His compositions, including the renowned 1st Symphony "Voices," have garnered international recognition since the early 1990s. Vasks' personal life is as rich as his musical legacy, sharing his home with his wife, director Dzintra Geka, in a house inherited from his great-aunt. His deep connection to music is evident in his words, "I could say that I am a happy person. Because the foundation of my life is music. I live in music, and what could be more beautiful than that?"