Adler: One Lives but Once. A 90th Birthday Celebration

Celebrate the remarkable career of Samuel Adler, one of the most influential and prolific composers of the twenty-first century, with this comprehensive three-disc collection released to commemorate his 90th birthday. Born in Germany in 1928 to a Jewish musical family, Adler's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and this album offers a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of classical music.

Spanning over three hours, this album features a diverse range of Adler's compositions, showcasing his versatility and mastery across various genres and forms. From symphonies and concertos to choral scherzi and suites, the collection offers a panoramic view of Adler's musical evolution and his unique ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements.

The album opens with Adler's Symphony No. 1, a powerful and evocative work that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 1 follows, featuring the virtuosic Michael Brown on piano, who brings a sense of urgency and intensity to the performance. The Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, performed by the talented Siwoo Kim, is another highlight, showcasing Adler's ability to create deeply expressive and technically demanding works for solo instruments.

The album also includes the world premiere recording of Adler's Concerto for Guitar and Orchestra, performed by Nicholas Goluses, which demonstrates Adler's innovative approach to combining traditional and modern elements. The Concerto for Woodwind Quintet and Orchestra "Shir HaMa’alot" is another standout, featuring a lively and energetic performance that highlights Adler's skill in writing for wind instruments.

In addition to these larger-scale works, the album also features a selection of Adler's choral and chamber music, including the Five Choral Scherzi and the suite "Ports of Call." These works offer a more intimate glimpse into Adler's musical world, showcasing his ability to create evocative and atmospheric pieces that are both technically challenging and emotionally resonant.

Throughout the album, Adler's music is brought to life by some of the world's most talented musicians, including the Brandenburgisches Staatsorchester Frankfurt unter dem Dirigat von Steven Sloane and the New York Virtuoso Singers. The performances are uniformly excellent, capturing the full range of Adler's musical expression and bringing his compositions to life with passion and precision.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Samuel Adler's music or a newcomer looking to explore his work, this album offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the full range of his musical genius. With its diverse selection of works and outstanding performances, it is a fitting tribute to one of the most important composers of our time.