Takemitsu: All in Twilight / Folios / in the Woods / 12 Songs

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Toru Takemitsu's "All in Twilight / Folios / In the Woods / 12 Songs," a captivating journey through the realms of Japanese classical guitar music. Released in 2000 under the BIS label, this album is a testament to Takemitsu's mastery and innovation in the genre, spanning a total of 24 tracks and just over an hour and ten minutes of pure musical bliss.

The album is a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Takemitsu's unique voice and his ability to blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary classical techniques. The centerpiece of the album is "Subete wa usuakari no naka de (All in Twilight)," a four-movement suite that exemplifies Takemitsu's signature sound, characterized by its delicate textures and evocative atmospheres.

In addition to Takemitsu's original works, the album features a delightful collection of 12 songs arranged for guitar, including beloved standards like "Yesterday," "Hey Jude," and "Summertime." These arrangements offer a fresh perspective on familiar tunes, highlighting Takemitsu's skill in adapting and reimagining existing material.

The album also includes "Folios," a three-part suite that further explores Takemitsu's distinctive compositional style, and "In the Woods," a trio of pieces inspired by nature and landscape, each named after a specific location. These works are a testament to Takemitsu's ability to evoke vivid imagery and atmosphere through his music.

Throughout the album, Takemitsu's compositions are brought to life by the virtuosity and sensitivity of guitarist Franz Halász, who delivers a tour-de-force performance that captures the essence of each piece. The result is an album that is as engaging as it is rewarding, offering a deep and meaningful exploration of Takemitsu's musical language and his enduring legacy in the world of classical guitar.

Toru Takemitsu, a pioneering figure in Japanese classical music, is renowned for his unique ability to blend Eastern and Western musical traditions. Born in Tokyo, Takemitsu was largely self-taught, developing a distinctive style that subtly manipulates instrumental and orchestral timbre. His compositions, which often fuse sound with silence and tradition with innovation, have earned him global acclaim, making him the first East Asian composer to achieve worldwide recognition. Takemitsu's extensive body of work includes several hundred independent pieces, film scores for over ninety movies, and twenty published books on aesthetics and music theory. His musical journey began at the age of 16, inspired by Western music heard through radio broadcasts during the post-war 1940s. Takemitsu's influence extends beyond his compositions, as he was also a founding member of the experimental music group Jikken Kobo. His works continue to be celebrated and performed by orchestras worldwide, showcasing his enduring impact on the music world.