Stefan Wolpe's "Vol. 8: Music for 2 Pianos" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde chamber music, released on April 5, 2019, under the Bridge Records label. This album offers a unique listening experience, spanning a concise yet impactful duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes.
The album is a testament to Wolpe's compositional prowess, featuring a diverse range of pieces that showcase his innovative approach to music. The centerpiece is "The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos)," a multi-movement work that narrates the biblical story of Moses. Each movement, from the dramatic "Overture [Portrait of Moses]" to the intense "Moses Walks Among the People, Commands Some to Be Killed," paints a vivid musical picture of the epic tale.
Complementing this narrative is "March & Variations, Op. 21," a piece that demonstrates Wolpe's ability to blend structure and spontaneity. The album concludes with two studies from "4 Studies on Basic Rows, Op. 23," showcasing Wolpe's exploration of serialism and his ability to create compelling music from complex theoretical frameworks.
Wolpe's music is known for its intellectual depth and emotional resonance, and this album is no exception. It's a journey through the composer's unique sound world, offering insights into his creative process and his enduring influence on the avant-garde music scene. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of chamber music or a curious newcomer, this album promises a rewarding and thought-provoking experience.
2019 Bridge Records2019 Bridge Records
Tracks
March & Variations, Op. 21Stefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 1, Overture [Portrait of Moses]Stefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 2, Serfdom [Lamentation]Stefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 3, Mother Conceals ChildStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 4, Pharoah's Daughter Bathes in the Nile, Finds the BabyStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 5, ProcessionStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 6, Pet of the Court - Political IntrigueStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 7, Moses Among the WorkersStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 8, Moses Buries the Taskmaster in the SandStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 9, Conversation with GodStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 10, Moses Meets Aaron - Command of Moses for the WatersStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 11, March Through the Red SeaStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 12, RestlessnessStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 13, Aaron's DesperationStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 14, Joshua's PleadingStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 15, BacchanalStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 16, Return of Moses - Breaking of Tablets - Moses Falls on the Arm of JoshuaStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 17, Moses Walks Among the People, Commands Some to Be KilledStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 18, Gathering of PeopleStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
4 Studies on Basic Rows, Op. 23: No. 3. Presto furiosoStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
4 Studies on Basic Rows, Op. 23: No. 4. PassacagliaStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani