Thomas Adès, a British composer, conductor, and pianist renowned for his innovative and influential work, presents a captivating album featuring his Violin Concerto, Op. 23, subtitled "Concentric Paths." Released on February 1, 2014, by BIS Records, this classical piano album spans 34 minutes and comprises six tracks, including three movements of the concerto and three studies from Couperin.
The Violin Concerto, Op. 23, is a triptych of movements, with the middle one being the most expansive and serving as the "slow" movement. This concerto showcases Adès' unique compositional voice and his ability to create intricate, engaging musical narratives. The Norwegian Radio Orchestra, conducted by Andrew Manze, accompanies the virtuoso violinist Peter Herresthal, delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.
In addition to the concerto, the album features three studies from François Couperin, arranged by Adès. These pieces, "Les Amusemens," "Les Tours de passe-passe," and "L'Âme-en-peine," offer a glimpse into Adès' interpretive skills and his ability to breathe new life into classical repertoire.
This album is a testament to Thomas Adès' prowess as a composer and pianist, offering listeners a chance to immerse themselves in his distinctive sound world. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.