Immerse yourself in the captivating world of George Crumb's "Makrokosmos I and II," a masterful collection of avant-garde chamber music that pushes the boundaries of traditional composition. Released on April 1, 2011, under the Music and Arts Programs of America label, this album is a testament to Crumb's innovative spirit and his ability to weave intricate soundscapes that resonate with depth and complexity.
Spanning a total of 69 minutes, the album is divided into two volumes, each containing twelve pieces that explore a variety of themes and musical techniques. The tracks are titled after astrological signs, adding an element of mystique and cosmic inspiration to the compositions. From the haunting melodies of "The Phantom Gondolier" to the ethereal sounds of "Voices from Corona Borealis," each piece is a journey through Crumb's unique musical landscape.
Crumb's use of extended techniques and unconventional instrumentation creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both challenging and rewarding. The album showcases his mastery of chamber music, blending traditional and modern elements to create a sound that is distinctly his own. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, "Makrokosmos I and II" offers a compelling exploration of the outer reaches of musical expression.
2011 Music and Arts Programs of America2011 Music and Arts Programs of America
Tracks
Makrokosmos I: Pt. I: I. Primeval sounds (Cancer)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. I: II. Proteus (Pisces)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. I: III. Pastorale (Taurus)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. I: IV. Crucifixus (Capricorn)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. II: V. The Phantom Gondolier (Scorpio)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. II: VI. Night-Spell I (Sagittarius)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. II: VII. Music of Shadows (Libra)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. II: VIII. The Magic Circle of Infinity (Leo)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. III: IX. The Abyss of Time (Virgo)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. III: X. The Spring-Fire (Aries)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. III: XI. Dream Images (Gemini)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos I: Pt. III: XII. Spiral Galaxy (Aquarius)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. I: I. Morning Music (Cancer)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. I: II. The Mystic Chord (Sagittarius)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. I: III. Rain-Death Variations (Pisces)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. I: IV. Twin Suns (Gemini)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. II: V. Ghost-Nocturne - For the Druids of Stonehenge (Virgo)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. II: VI. Gargoyles (Taurus)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. II: VII. Tora! Tora! (Scorpio)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. II: VIII. A Prophecy of Nostradamus (Aries)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. III: IX. Cosmic Wind (Libra)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. III: X. Voices from Corona Borealis (Aquarius)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. III: XI. Litany of the Galactic Bells (Leo)George Crumb, Jo Boatright
Makrokosmos II: Pt. III: XII. Agnus Dei (Capricorn)George Crumb, Jo Boatright