Carter: Oboe Concerto, Esprit rude / Esprit doux, A Mirror on Which to Dwell & Penthode

Elliott Carter, a titan of 20th-century classical music, presents a masterful collection of his works in this 1990 album. The album is a testament to Carter's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to the avant-garde and chamber music genres. It features the Oboe Concerto, a piece that showcases the oboe's expressive range and technical demands, performed with precision by an ensemble conducted by the legendary Pierre Boulez. The album also includes "Esprit rude / Esprit doux," a striking duo for violin and piano that contrasts raw and refined musical expressions. "A Mirror on Which to Dwell" is a suite of six movements for piano, each exploring different textures and moods, while "Penthode" for solo piano rounds out the collection with its complex rhythms and harmonies. This album is a profound exploration of Carter's musical language, offering listeners a chance to delve into the intricate and intellectually stimulating world of one of classical music's most influential composers.