Zephyr

"Zephyr: Music for Organ by Carson Cooman, Vol. 8" is a captivating collection of contemporary organ music, performed by the renowned organist Erik Simmons. Released on June 15, 2018, under the Divine Art label, this album spans a duration of 73 minutes and 45 seconds, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.

Comprising 21 tracks, the album showcases Carson Cooman's compositional prowess, with each piece demonstrating his unique style and mastery of the organ. The tracklist includes a variety of works, such as the dramatic "Gothic Processional, Op. 1221" and the serene "2 Impressions, Op. 1216," as well as the intricate "Ceremonial Suite, Op. 1215" and the lively "Concertino III, Op. 1214." The album also features several pieces inspired by other composers, including a "Voluntary on Bachofen" and a "Paraphrase on a Motive of Andreas Willscher."

Erik Simmons' virtuosity is evident throughout the album, as he navigates the complex compositions with skill and finesse. The organ's full range is explored, from the deepest pedals to the highest stops, creating a sonic landscape that is both powerful and delicate. The album's title track, "Sketch No. 4 'Zephyr,' Op. 1250," is a standout piece, showcasing Cooman's ability to evoke the gentle breeze of a zephyr through his music.

"Zephyr: Music for Organ by Carson Cooman, Vol. 8" is an essential addition to any classical music lover's collection, offering a comprehensive overview of Carson Cooman's organ works and a testament to Erik Simmons' exceptional talent. The album's high-quality recording and thoughtful programming make it a delight to listen to from start to finish.

Carson Cooman is a dynamic and prolific American composer and organist, renowned for his extensive catalog of over hundreds of works that span a wide array of forms and genres. Born in Rochester, New York, in 1982, Cooman's musical journey began at a young age, inspired by his grandmother, a music teacher. His compositions range from intimate solo pieces and hymn tunes to grand operas and symphonies, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit. Cooman's music has resonated globally, performed on all six inhabited continents in venues as prestigious as Carnegie Hall and as unique as the basket of a hot air balloon. As the Composer in Residence at the Memorial Church, Harvard University, since 2006, Cooman continues to push the boundaries of contemporary music, making him a standout figure in the classical music world. His works, often described as harmonically advanced, have been featured on over forty recordings, ensuring his music reaches a wide and appreciative audience.