In "Song of the Birds," mandolin virtuoso Avi Avital invites you into a rich tapestry of musical traditions, blending the classical and the folk in a captivating exploration of three distinct geographical regions. This album, set for release on August 8, 2025, under Deutsche Grammophon, is a testament to Avital's artistry and his ensemble, Between Worlds, as they push the boundaries of traditional mandolin music.
The album spans 20 tracks, each a carefully curated piece that weaves together centuries of musical heritage from Italy, Iberia, and the Black Sea. From the lively "Tarantella di Sannicandro" to the hauntingly beautiful "El cant dels ocells," Avital and his ensemble navigate a diverse range of styles and influences. The inclusion of Ladino songs, Mingrelian folk tunes, and classical pieces like Manuel de Falla's "El amor brujo" showcases the ensemble's versatility and Avital's mastery of the mandolin.
"Song of the Birds" is not just a collection of songs but a journey through time and space, uncovering the deep connections that bind these diverse musical traditions. The album's duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes offers a comprehensive experience, allowing the listener to immerse themselves in the intricate arrangements and the rich cultural tapestry that Avital and Between Worlds have so skillfully woven. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious explorer of world music, this album promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
Tarantella di SannicandroTraditional, David Bruce, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Alessia Tondo
RaikoTraditional, Antonis Sousamoglou, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
Canciones españolas antiguas: No. 10, ZorongoTraditional, Federico García Lorca, Enrike Solinís, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Marina Heredia, José Quevedo "Bolita", Paquito Escudero
Ladino Songs: No. 3, Una matica de rudaTraditional, Jonathan Keren, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
Mingrelian Songs: Chaguna (Arr. Bruce for Mandolin, Ensemble & Choir)Otar Taktakishvili, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Ensemble Rustavi
El amor brujo: Danza del juego del amor (Arr. Bruce for Mandolin, Vocals & Ensemble)Manuel de Falla, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Marina Heredia, José Quevedo "Bolita", Paquito Escudero
Bella ci dormi (Arr. Segatta & Gozlan for Mandolin, Ensemble & Voice)Traditional, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Alessia Tondo
Ladino Songs: No. 2, Avre tu puerta cerradaTraditional, Jonathan Keren, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
Mingrelian Songs: Didavoi Nana (Arr. Bruce for Mandolin, Ensemble & Choir)Otar Taktakishvili, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Ensemble Rustavi
Ladino Songs: Intro to No. 4, La PeteneraTraditional, Jonathan Keren, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
Ladino Songs: No. 4, La PeteneraTraditional, Jonathan Keren, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Marina Heredia
Ladino Songs: No. 5, A la una yo naciTraditional, Jonathan Keren, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
VirrineddaTraditional, David Bruce, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Alessia Tondo
To to toTraditional, David Bruce, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Alessia Tondo
Mingrelian Songs: Chiche Tura (Arr. Bruce for Mandolin, Ensemble & Choir)Otar Taktakishvili, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Ensemble Rustavi
Ladino Songs: No. 1, Esta montaña d’enfrenteTraditional, Jonathan Keren, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
Black Earth (Arr. Bruce for Mandolin & Ensemble)Fazıl Say, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
Mingrelian Songs: Kuchkhi Bedineri (Arr. Bruce for Mandolin, Ensemble & Choir)Otar Taktakishvili, Avi Avital, Between Worlds, Ensemble Rustavi
Cuatro piezas españolas: No 4, Andaluza (Arr. Bruce for Mandolin & Ensemble)Manuel de Falla, Avi Avital, Between Worlds
El cant dels ocellsTraditional, David Bruce, Avi Avital, Between Worlds