Thursday, October 8, 2009

Something more personal

One of our members was asking me what my favourite pieces are and have I ever shared my music online.

Well, many of my favourite pieces are here online. I tend toward 19th and 20th century music. Compositionally, I prefer small ensembles. I like to hear inner voicings and like to use interplay of complimentary solo instruments. Flute and clarinet are a particular favourite, but one can never get away from the classic string quartet or brass choir. The latter is one of my "heart-throbs". ;) In recent years I have become more and more infatuated with the human voice.

An early recording I made (complete with background noise) is what I will share with you. The tempo is entirely unconventional, but at the time it was as if the music was an elexir that made me totally drunk with its pleasure... like making love to the piano keys...

If you want to hear it, here it is:

Erik Satie: Gnoissienne No.1

Monday, October 5, 2009

Mercedes Sosa (1935 - 2009)

The death of legendary Argentine singer and activist Mercedes Sosa has created a void that will be hard if not impossible to fill.

Long appreciated for her interpretation of Argentine and Cuban folk music, I first was introduced to her through her 1999 CD "Missa Criolla" with an astounding performance of Ariele Ramirez' timeless music. Her 'alto' voice was especially haunting and evoked the essence of the Argentine soul. Her body of music, which spans 50 years, will always be a cornerstone in 20th Century music.

She will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.

For more information about Mercedes Sosa, there is a hastily prepared article at Wikipedia. Here is a sample of her music for those who have not yet had the pleasure . . .


Ariele Ramirez: Missa Criolla (Creole Mass) - Agnus Dei
Performed by: Mercedes Sosa (1999)