Cage/Harbison/Hartke/Wyner: Violin Works

Michelle Makarski's "Cage/Harbison/Hartke/Wyner: Violin Works" is a captivating exploration of contemporary classical music, released on January 1, 1991, under the New World Records label. This album spans a total duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Makarski's virtuosic prowess on the violin.

The album is a collection of works by four distinct composers, each contributing a unique perspective to the violin repertoire. It begins with John Cage's "Four Songs of Solitude," a meditative suite that challenges traditional notions of melody and harmony. Following this, John Harbison's "Six Melodies for Violin and Keyboard" unfolds, a series of intimate and expressive dialogues between the violin and piano.

The album then delves into the playful and whimsical world of Karen Hartke's "Oh Them Rats is Mean in My Kitchen," a four-movement work that blends humor and technical brilliance. The final piece on the album is John Harbison's "Concert Duo for Violin and Piano," a dynamic and virtuosic work that concludes the album on a high note.

Throughout the album, Michelle Makarski's exceptional artistry shines, bringing each composition to life with her technical precision and emotional depth. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling journey through the diverse landscapes of contemporary violin music.