Charles Wuorinen's album, Ashberyana / Fenton Songs I and II / Josquiniana, is a masterful showcase of the composer's wit, virtuosity, and intellectual rigour. Released on 29 April 2008 by Naxos, this captivating collection of 20 tracks features a range of talented artists, including Lucy Shelton, Leon Williams, James Pugh, and the Brentano String Quartet.
The album is a testament to Wuorinen's compositional skill, with intricate instrumental writing that provides a complex and often humorous commentary on the simplicity of the vocal lines. From the introduction and recitative of Ashberyana to the lively scherzos and poignant ballads of Fenton Songs, each piece is a testament to Wuorinen's innovative spirit and mastery of his craft.
The album also features Josquiniana, a work that pays homage to the Renaissance composer Josquin des Prez, with six pieces that showcase Wuorinen's ability to blend the old with the new. With a total duration of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album is a must-listen for fans of avant-garde classical music. Throughout the album, Wuorinen's music is brought to life by the talented performers, who deliver nuanced and expressive interpretations of his compositions. With its unique blend of wit, virtuosity, and intellectual rigour, Ashberyana / Fenton Songs I and II / Josquiniana is a compelling addition to any classical music collection.
2008 Naxos2008 Naxos
Tracks
Ashberyana: I. Introduction and Recitative. Outside My Window the Japanese…Charles Wuorinen, Leon Williams, Da Camera Of Houston
Ashberyana: IIa. Scherzo. Laughing GravyCharles Wuorinen, Leon Williams, Da Camera Of Houston
Ashberyana: IIb. Scherzo. Dear Sir or MadamCharles Wuorinen, Leon Williams, Da Camera Of Houston
Ashberyana: III. The Laughter of Dead MenCharles Wuorinen, Leon Williams, Da Camera Of Houston
PraegustatumCharles Wuorinen, Sarah Rothenberg
Fenton Songs: No. 1, Beauty, Danger and DismayCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Sarah Rothenberg
Fenton Songs: No. 2, Out of DangerCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Sarah Rothenberg
Fenton Songs: No. 3, SeriousCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Sarah Rothenberg
Fenton Songs: No. 4, HinterhofCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Sarah Rothenberg
Fenton Songs II: No. 1, Blood and LeadCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Alan Feinberg
Fenton Songs II: No. 2, TiananmenCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Alan Feinberg
Fenton Songs II: No. 3, The Ballad of the Shrieking ManCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Alan Feinberg
Fenton Songs II: No. 4, Fireflies of the SeaCharles Wuorinen, Lucy Shelton, Mark Steinberg, Nina Maria Lee, Alan Feinberg
Josquin: Ave ChristeCharles Wuorinen, Sarah Rothenberg
Josquiniana: I. Helas madameCharles Wuorinen, Brentano String Quartet
Josquiniana: II. Faulte d'argentCharles Wuorinen, Brentano String Quartet
Josquiniana: III. Cela sans PlusCharles Wuorinen, Brentano String Quartet
Josquiniana: IV. Comment peultCharles Wuorinen, Brentano String Quartet
Josquiniana: V. Vive le RoyCharles Wuorinen, Brentano String Quartet
Josquiniana: VI. El Grillo, "Josquin a'Ascanio"Charles Wuorinen, Brentano String Quartet
Charles Wuorinen, a pivotal figure in American modernist music, was renowned for his innovative approach to serial composition. Born in New York to a family with deep Finnish roots, Wuorinen's musical journey was as rich and complex as his heritage. His father, John H. Wuorinen, was a distinguished historian and professor at Columbia University, while his mother, Alfhild Kalijarvi Wuorinen, also had Finnish ancestry. Wuorinen's contributions to the avant-garde genre spanned a wide range of works, from dramatic cantatas to intricate chamber pieces. His compositions, such as "On Alligators" and "Lepton," showcase his unique voice and technical mastery. Wuorinen's legacy continues to inspire, reflecting his enduring impact on contemporary classical music.
Vinylscout
Charles Wuorinen
