Classical Playlist: András Schiff, Janine Jansen, Rebekah Heller and More
The New York Times ArtsBeat, Nov. 13, 2013
A playlist of a different kind than the sort this blog is known for, and an attempt at solving the recent problem of too many worthy recordings and not enough space in print. Since at least one person I know has suggested that I prompted this innovation, I hasten to credit Anthony Tommasini with the notion and the urge behind its implementation, and Jeremy Egner with the format, design and actual labor.
These are the three recordings I picked for my first contribution, linked by Chicago ties and a piece by Marcos Balter on each:
‘100 NAMES’
Rebekah Heller, bassoon, percussion, narrator
(Tundra Records)
‘HOT’
Ryan Muncy, saxophone; with Nadia Sirota, viola; Ben Melsky, harp; Claire Chase, bass flute; and Ensemble Dal Niente, conducted by Michael Lewanski
(New Focus Recordings)
‘CHAMBERS’
Spektral Quartet
(Parlour Tapes+)
I sympathize with the wry suggestion that not titling this column "Bach, Beethoven and Balter" was a missed opportunity. To be totally honest, choosing a cluster of related releases resulted from my mistaken impression about the putative format of this new weekly feature during its planning. That being the case, I'm grateful to all concerned for preserving it in its original integrity. No slight was intended toward any of the other worthy composers whose works are included on these recordings, all of which urge investigation.
My next clutch of capsules ought to arrive on Wednesday, Nov. 27 20 27, and should include a singing, ringing and chiming endorsement for one more Chicago group, plus a long, slow gaze toward Colorado and some well-deserved praise for a New York City foursome's debut disc. Stay tuned.
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