Dive into the captivating world of Thomas Adès with his 1998 album "Living Toys," a mesmerizing collection of classical piano compositions that showcase the composer's extraordinary talent and versatility. This album is a testament to Adès' ability to blend modern classical music with a unique, contemporary sensibility, resulting in a sound that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.
"Living Toys" features a diverse range of pieces, including the titular work "Living Toys, Op.9," a chamber ensemble composition that was part of Adès' MPhil portfolio. The album also includes other notable works such as "Arcadiana, Op.12," "Sonata da Caccia, Op.11," and "The Origin of the Harp, Op.13," each offering a distinct musical journey. The pieces vary in mood and tempo, from the hauntingly beautiful "Arcadiana" to the lively and playful "Sonata da Caccia."
Recorded and released by Warner Classics, this album spans a total of 24 tracks, with a duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes. The compositions are performed with precision and passion, highlighting the intricate details and emotional depth of Adès' music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Living Toys" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): I. Angels -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): II. Aurochs -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): BALETT -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): III Militiamen -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): IV. H.A.L.'s Death -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): BATTLE -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): V. Playing Funerals -Thomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Living Toys, Op.9 (1993): TABLETThomas Adès, London Sinfonietta, Markus Stenz
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): I. Venezia notturnaThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): II. Das klinget so herrlich, das Iklinget so schönThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): III. Auf dem Wasser zu singenThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): IV. Et....(tango mortale)Thomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): V. L'Embarquement -Thomas Adès
Adès: Arcadiana, Op. 12: VI. O AlbionThomas Adès
Arcadiana, Op.12 (1994): VII. LetheThomas Adès
Sonata da Caccia, Op.11 (1993): I. Gravement -Thomas Adès, Michael Niesemann/Andrew Clark/Thomas Adès
Sonata da Caccia, Op.11 (1993): II. Gayëment -Thomas Adès, Michael Niesemann/Andrew Clark/Thomas Adès
Sonata da Caccia, Op.11 (1993): III. NaïvementThomas Adès, Michael Niesemann/Andrew Clark/Thomas Adès
Adès: Sonata da caccia, Op. 11: IV. GalamentThomas Adès, Andrew Clark, Michael Niesemann
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): I. Dolcissimo ed espressivoThomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): II. Largo con motoThomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): III. SpettraleThomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
The Origin of the Harp, Op.13 (1994): IV. [untitled]Thomas Adès, Lynsey Marsh, Barnaby Robson, Paul Richards, Judith Busbridge, Susan Knight, Richard Benjafield, Louise Hopkins, Paul Watkins, Jonathan Tunnell, James Boyd
Adès: Gefriolsae me, Op. 3bThomas Adès, Choir of King's College, Cambridge, Robert Quinney, Stephen Cleobury