Thomas Larcher: What Becomes

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating sound world of Thomas Larcher with his 2014 album, "What Becomes." This collection, released on the prestigious Harmonia Mundi label, showcases Larcher's unique ability to blend contemplative harmonies with innovative performance techniques, resulting in a mesmerizing auditory experience.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, the album comprises three distinct works for piano: "Smart Dust" (2005), "Poems" (2005–2010), and the titular "What Becomes" (2014). Each piece is a testament to Larcher's compositional prowess, offering a diverse range of musical textures and moods. "Smart Dust" features two contrasting movements, "Very slow" and "Very fast," while "Poems" is a cycle of twelve pieces, each inspired by a different poetic image or narrative. "What Becomes" concludes the album with six evocative movements, including the haunting "Fission" and the serene "Flowing."

A highlight of the album is "A Padmore Cycle," a set of songs written in 2011 for tenor Mark Padmore. These songs, set to poems by Hans Aschenwald and Alois Hotschnig, demonstrate Larcher's skill in vocal composition and his ability to create deeply expressive and intimate musical moments.

Throughout "What Becomes," Thomas Larcher's originality and creativity shine through, making this album a compelling addition to any contemporary music enthusiast's collection. The album features performances by renowned artists Mark Padmore and Tamara Stefanovich, further enhancing the listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Larcher's work or a newcomer to his music, "What Becomes" offers a rich and rewarding exploration of one of today's most innovative composers.

April 21, 2014

2014 harmoniamundi usa

2014 harmonia mundi usa

About Thomas Larcher

Thomas Larcher, born in Innsbruck, Austria, in 1963, is a renowned composer and pianist whose music is celebrated for its haunting landscapes and dreamscapes, blending traditional and experimental techniques. His compositions, often described as arresting and communicative, stand out as some of the most imaginative voices in contemporary classical music. Larcher's journey began with studies in piano and composition at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, where he honed his skills under the guidance of esteemed mentors. He gained recognition as a pianist, particularly in the realm of contemporary music, performing with conductors like Claudio Abbado. Larcher's works, such as "The Living Mountain" and "Time," showcase his unique ability to fuse traditional forms with innovative approaches, creating a world that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply thoughtful. His upcoming cello concerto, "returning into darkness," set for its world premiere in New York in 2025, further exemplifies his commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical music. Whether through his compositions or his performances, Thomas Larcher continues to captivate audiences with his authentic and enriching musical vision.