Elliott Carter's "Ballets" is a captivating journey through the realms of avant-garde and chamber music, released on March 2, 2021, under the BMOP/sound label. This album is a testament to Carter's innovative compositional style, offering a unique blend of narrative and musical exploration.
The album is divided into two distinct ballets: "Pocahontas" and "The Minotaur." "Pocahontas" delves into the historical and mythical tale of the Native American princess, with tracks that vividly depict scenes from her life, including her encounters with John Smith and Rolfe. The second ballet, "The Minotaur," is a dramatic retelling of the ancient Greek myth, featuring a series of tracks that narrate the story of Theseus and Ariadne's quest to defeat the Minotaur.
Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing Carter's mastery of musical storytelling. The album's duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of these narratives, with each movement seamlessly transitioning into the next. The avant-garde and chamber music genres blend harmoniously, creating a rich and immersive listening experience.
Elliott Carter's "Ballets" is not just an album; it's a musical journey through history and myth, brought to life by the genius of one of the most influential composers of the 20th century. Whether you're a fan of avant-garde music, chamber music, or simply appreciate a well-crafted narrative, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
(C) 2021 BMOP/sound(P) 2021 BMOP/sound
Tracks
Pocahontas: OvertureElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
Pocahontas: John Smith and Rolfe Lost in the Virginia ForestElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
Pocahontas: The Indians ambush John SmithElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
Pocahontas: Princess Pocahontas and her LadiesElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
Pocahontas: John Smith is tortured by Indians and saved by PocahontasElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
Pocahontas: John Smith presents young Rolfe to Pocahontas, Rolfe and Pocahontas danceElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
Pocahontas: Pavane, Farewell of Indians, Pocahontas and Rolfe sail for EnglandElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur: OvertureElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene I: Queen Pasiphae dresses for her tryst with the sacred bullElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene I: Pasiphae’s dance with the bullsElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur: InterludeElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Building of the LabyrinthElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Procession and entrance of King MinosElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Sacrifice of the Greek victimsElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Ariadne dances with Theseus (Pas de Deux)Elliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: The LabyrinthElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Theseus’ Farewell as he enters the LabyrinthElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Ariadne’s thread unwindsElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: The Fight with the MinotaurElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Ariadne rewinds her thread to lead Theseus out of the LabyrinthElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Greeks and Theseus emerge from LabyrinthElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose
The Minotaur, Scene II: Theseus and the Greeks prepare to leave CreteElliott Carter, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Gil Rose