ROCO in Concert: Notes to Be Written

ROCO, the renowned chamber orchestra from Houston, presents "Notes to Be Written," a captivating album released on January 29, 2018, under their own label. This 38-minute collection features six tracks, including three world premieres, showcasing the ensemble's versatility and commitment to contemporary and classical repertoire.

The album opens with "From Dusk to Starry Night," a four-movement song cycle featuring texts by Walt Whitman, Amy Lowell, and Stephen Foster, with music by Pierre Jalbert. Soprano Sasha Cooke joins ROCO for these world premieres, adding a touch of vocal elegance to the orchestral arrangements. The cycle explores themes of nature, love, and the passage of time, providing a rich and evocative listening experience.

Also featured is Felix Mendelssohn's "Die Hebriden, Op. 26: Overture," a stirring piece inspired by the composer's visit to the Isle of Staffa. The album concludes with "New England Triptych, II. When Jesus Wept," a beautiful arrangement by Charles Ives, highlighting ROCO's ability to bring depth and nuance to familiar works.

Conducted by David Danzmayr, "Notes to Be Written" is a testament to ROCO's artistic vision and technical prowess. The album offers a unique blend of old and new, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.