Carson Cooman: Preludio – Music for Organ - Carson Cooman

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the intricate and captivating world of Carson Cooman's "Preludio – Music for Organ," a remarkable collection of 44 minimalist compositions released in 2016 under the Divine Art label. Spanning an impressive two hours and twenty-one minutes, this album is a testament to Cooman's prowess as a composer and his deep understanding of the organ's vast expressive capabilities.

The album is a diverse journey through various musical forms and styles, showcasing Cooman's versatility and innovation. From the grand and majestic "Preludio festivo" to the intricate and contemplative "Ricercari," each piece offers a unique listening experience. The album also features a range of dances, including pavanes, sarabandes, and allemandes, each infused with Cooman's distinctive minimalist touch.

Cooman's compositions are known for their meticulous craftsmanship and subtle emotional depth. In "Preludio – Music for Organ," he explores a wide range of moods and atmospheres, from the quiet introspection of "Plaint" to the exuberant energy of "Rondeau." The album also includes several concertinos and sonatinas, demonstrating Cooman's ability to blend classical forms with contemporary minimalist techniques.

One of the highlights of the album is the "Organ Concertino I," a four-movement work that showcases Cooman's ability to create complex, multi-layered compositions. The concertino's final movement, "Toccatina," is a particularly impressive display of virtuosity and technical skill.

Throughout the album, Cooman's music is characterized by its rhythmic drive, harmonic richness, and melodic inventiveness. His use of minimalist techniques, such as repetition and gradual transformation, creates a sense of momentum and progression that keeps the listener engaged.

"Preludio – Music for Organ" is not just a collection of individual pieces, but a cohesive musical journey that reflects Cooman's unique artistic vision. Whether you're a longtime fan of minimalist music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

July 8, 2016

2016 Divine Art

About Carson Cooman

Carson Cooman is a prolific American composer and organist, renowned for his extensive catalog of hundreds of works that span a wide array of genres and forms. Born in Rochester, New York, Cooman's musical journey began at a young age, inspired by his grandmother, a music teacher and Eastman School of Music graduate. By the age of eight, he was already composing his own pieces, a passion that has since led to a diverse portfolio including solo instrumental works, operas, orchestral pieces, and hymn tunes.

Cooman's music has resonated globally, performed on all six inhabited continents in venues as prestigious as Carnegie Hall and as unique as the basket of a hot air balloon. As an organist, he is celebrated for his performances of new music and his expertise on chamber organs. His compositions have been featured on numerous recordings, including over fifteen complete CDs released on major labels such as Naxos, Albany, and MSR Classics.

In addition to his composing and performing, Cooman serves as a Research Associate in Music and Composer in Residence at the Memorial Church. His innovative approach to music, combined with his technical prowess and creative vision, makes Carson Cooman a standout figure in the contemporary music scene.