Birtwistle: The Woman And The Hare

Album Description

Dive into the intricate and captivating world of Harrison Birtwistle with his compelling album "The Woman and the Hare." Released in 2002 under the Decca label, this album is a testament to Birtwistle's mastery of composition, spanning a rich duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes. The album features a diverse array of works, including the titular piece "The Woman and the Hare," which is a mesmerizing exploration of text shared between a soprano and a female reciter, each moving at their own musical pace. This creates a unique layer of ambiguity and depth, inviting the listener to engage with the perennial cycles depicted in the poem.

The album also showcases "Nine Settings of Lorine Niedecker," a series of intimate duets for soprano and cello that bring to life the poetry of Lorine Niedecker. Each setting offers a distinct musical landscape, from the reflective "There's a better shine on the pendulum" to the evocative "O late fall marsh." Additionally, the album includes "Duets for Storab," a collection of pastoral and bird-inspired pieces that highlight Birtwistle's ability to blend natural elements with sophisticated musical structures. "An Interrupted Endless Melody" and "Entr'actes and Sappho Fragments" further enrich the album with their complex compositions, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and themes.

Performed by the esteemed Nash Ensemble, with notable contributions from Claron McFadden, Julia Watson, and Martyn Brabbins, this album is a celebration of Birtwistle's innovative approach to music. Whether you are a seasoned fan of classical music or a curious explorer of contemporary compositions, "The Woman and the Hare" promises an enriching and thought-provoking experience.

1 januari 2002

℗ 2002 Black Box Music Ltd

About Harrison Birtwistle

Sir Harrison Birtwistle, a titan of contemporary classical music, is renowned for his powerful and innovative compositions, particularly his operas that delve into mythological realms. Born in England, Birtwistle's works are celebrated for their theatricality, even when not explicitly staged. His notable compositions include "The Triumph of Time," and the operas "The Mask of Orpheus," "Gawain," and "The Minotaur," the latter of which was hailed by critics as one of the 21st century's finest pieces. Birtwistle's bold and dramatic style was famously showcased during the BBC's Last Night of the Proms with his saxophone concerto "Panic," an event that garnered national attention. His extensive accolades include numerous international awards and honorary degrees, cementing his legacy as a master composer.