Experience the profound and evocative compositions of John McCabe, a renowned composer and pianist, with this captivating album featuring three of his most compelling chamber works. Released in 2017, this collection showcases McCabe's mastery of the classical genre, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that span over an hour and twenty-five minutes.
The album opens with "The Woman by the Sea," a piano quintet inspired by the cinematic masterpiece "Sansho Dayu" by Kenji Mizoguchi. This piece, recorded in 2009, features McCabe himself on piano, accompanied by the esteemed Sacconi Quartet, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that draws listeners into its narrative depths.
Next, "Silver Nocturnes" presents a series of six movements for baritone and string quartet, each setting poetry by the celebrated 'Silver Poets' of the sixteenth century. The baritone vocals of Roderick Williams are beautifully complemented by the Sacconi Quartet, resulting in a poignant and introspective exploration of Renaissance verse.
The album concludes with the "Horn Quintet," a dynamic and energetic piece performed by the talented horn player David Pyatt and the Sacconi Quartet. Composed between 2010 and 2011, this quintet showcases McCabe's versatility and his ability to craft intricate and engaging musical dialogues.
Recorded between 2009 and 2017 at All Saints Church in East Finchley, London, and Champs Hill in West Sussex, this album benefits from the exceptional acoustics of these venues, ensuring a rich and immersive listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a profound and enriching journey through the musical landscape of John McCabe.
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