Dido and Orfeo

Album Description

Gavin Bryars, renowned for his unique contributions to minimalism and avant-garde music, presents "Dido and Orfeo," a captivating exploration of classical opera reimagined for the modern ear. Released on September 29, 2023, via GB Records, this album is a testament to Bryars' innovative approach to composition, blending the timeless elegance of Henry Purcell and Christoph Willibald Gluck with contemporary musical sensibilities.

"Dido and Orfeo" features 23 meticulously crafted tracks, each a reworking of famous opera pieces, transforming them into a cohesive and mesmerizing ballet score. The album's duration of 65 minutes is filled with intricate layers of sound, showcasing Bryars' mastery of minimalist and avant-garde techniques. From the hauntingly beautiful "Dido's Lament" to the dynamic "Dance of the Furies," each piece is a journey through time and musical expression.

Collaborating with Jennifer Thiessen, Jean-Christophe Lizotte, and Njo Kong Kie, Bryars brings together a diverse range of talents to bring this unique vision to life. The result is an album that not only pays homage to the past but also pushes the boundaries of what contemporary classical music can be. Whether you're a longtime fan of Gavin Bryars or a newcomer to his work, "Dido and Orfeo" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that stands out in the world of minimalist and avant-garde music.

September 29, 2023

2023 GB Records/Zaleski Enterprises

2023 GB Records

About Gavin Bryars

Gavin Bryars is a versatile and influential British composer and double bassist, born in Yorkshire in 1943. His musical journey began in the early 1960s as a jazz bassist, collaborating with improvisers like Derek Bailey. Over the decades, Bryars has explored a wide range of genres, including jazz, free improvisation, minimalism, historicism, avant-garde, and experimental music. His compositions are known for their unique, often hypnotic qualities, and his approach to music is deeply personal, with each piece written specifically for the performers who bring it to life. Bryars' work has inspired generations of artists, notably with his seminal piece "The Sinking of the Titanic," released on Brian Eno's Obscure imprint. His innovative contributions to music have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Innovation Award at The Ivors Classical Awards. Bryars' music is a testament to his enduring creativity and his ability to continually evolve and surprise.