James Tenney's "Arbor Vitæ" is a profound and introspective journey into the world of avant-garde and minimalist music, marking the composer's final work. Released in 2006 under the Collection QB label, this album spans over two hours and offers a rich tapestry of experimental compositions for string quartet. The album features a diverse range of pieces, including "Saxony," "Stochastic String Quartet," and the titular "Arbor Vitæ," each showcasing Tenney's innovative approach to composition and his deep exploration of harmonic structures. The album also includes the "Quintext I-V: Five Textures" series, paying homage to influential composers such as Morton Feldman, Iannis Xenakis, Carl Ruggles, Edgard Varèse, and Harry Partch. Premiered at the California Institute of the Arts, "Arbor Vitæ" is a testament to Tenney's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the world of contemporary classical music.
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