Immerse yourself in the profound and contemplative world of Alan Hovhaness with his "Complete Works for Solo Organ." This album, set for release on July 4, 2025, through Toccata Classics, is a testament to Hovhaness's mastery of minimalism and his unique ability to evoke deep spiritual and emotional resonance through his compositions.
Spanning a total of 24 tracks and clocking in at just over an hour and twenty-one minutes, this collection showcases Hovhaness's intricate and meditative approach to the organ. The album features a range of works, including sonatas, hymns, and meditations, each piece crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a deep sense of reverence.
Among the highlights are the three organ sonatas, each offering a distinct journey through Hovhaness's musical landscape. The "Organ Sonata No. 1, Op. 352" unfolds in five movements, from the serene "Aria" to the introspective "Madrigal." The "Organ Sonata No. 2, Op. 386 'Invisible Sun'" and the "Organ Sonata No. 3, Op. 424 'Hermit Thrush'" further explore the depths of Hovhaness's compositional genius, blending contemplative melodies with intricate counterpoint.
The album also includes the evocative "Sanahin, Op. 69," a multi-movement work that draws inspiration from Armenian monastic traditions. This piece, along with others like "Habakkuk, Op. 434" and "Prayer of St. Gregory, Op. 62b," reflects Hovhaness's deep spiritual roots and his ability to translate profound emotions into music.
Performed with exquisite sensitivity and technical precision, this album is a must-listen for fans of minimalist and contemplative music. Whether you're drawn to the serene beauty of Hovhaness's hymns or the intricate complexity of his sonatas, "Complete Works for Solo Organ" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
2025 Toccata Classics, London2025 Toccata Classics, London
Tracks
Dawn Hymn, Op. 138Alan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 1, Op. 352: I. AriaAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 1, Op. 352: II. FugaAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 1, Op. 352: III. DanceAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 1, Op. 352: IV. AriosoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 1, Op. 352: V. MadrigalAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Prayer of St. Gregory, Op. 62b (Version for Trumpet & Organ)Alan Hovhaness, Peter Wright, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 2, Op. 386 "Invisible Sun": I. Andante con moto - Allegro - Andante con motoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 2, Op. 386 "Invisible Sun": II. Adagio maestoso - Andante cantabile - Fugato. Moderato - MaestosoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 2, Op. 386 "Invisible Sun": III. Adagio con molto espressione - EspressivoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 2, Op. 386 "Invisible Sun": IV. Maestoso - Fuga - MaestosoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonatina, Op. 382: I. AndanteAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonatina, Op. 382: II. Allegretto pastoraleAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonatina, Op. 382: III. Adagio con molto espressioneAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Organ Sonata No. 3, Op. 424 "Hermit Thrush"Alan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Habakkuk, Op. 434Alan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: I. Prelude. Moderato maestosoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: II. Estampie. AllegroAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: III. Meditation. AndanteAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: IV. First Whirling. AllegroAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: V. Pastoral Meditation. AndanteAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: VI. Second Whirling. AllegrettoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: VII. Apparition in the Sky. AndanteAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
Sanahin, Op. 69: VIII. Processional of Peace. Andante maestosoAlan Hovhaness, Tom Winpenny
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