Maia Brami delivers a captivating exploration of Leoš Janáček's piano cycle "On an Overgrown Path" in this exquisite album, released on ECM New Series. The recording, which clocks in at just over an hour, presents a beautifully arranged string orchestra version of Janáček's introspective and evocative compositions, expertly arranged by Rumler. Brami's nuanced performances bring a fresh perspective to these pieces, showcasing her deep understanding and connection with Janáček's music.
The album opens with "Meditation on an Old Czech Hymn 'St Wenceslas'" and seamlessly transitions into the first book of "On an Overgrown Path." Each track is a miniature masterpiece, with titles that paint vivid images and evoke a range of emotions, from the playful "Come with Us!" to the poignant "In Tears." The second book continues this journey, culminating in the hauntingly beautiful "Notturno in B Major."
Maia Brami's interpretation is both sensitive and dynamic, highlighting the intricate details and rich harmonies of Janáček's compositions. Her playing is impeccable, capturing the essence of each piece with remarkable clarity and depth. The string orchestra arrangement adds a new dimension to these familiar works, enhancing their emotional resonance and offering listeners a unique listening experience.
This album is a testament to Maia Brami's artistry and her ability to breathe new life into well-loved compositions. Whether you are a longtime fan of Janáček's music or a newcomer to his work, this recording is sure to captivate and inspire.
Meditation on an Old Czech Hymn "St Wenceslas", Op. 35aJosef Suk, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: I. Our Evenings. Naše večeryLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: II. A Blown-Away Leaf. Lístek odvanutýLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: III. Come with Us!. Pojďte namí!Leoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: IV. The Frýdek Madonna. Frýdecká Panna MariaLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: V. They Chattered Like Swallows. Štěbetaly jak laštovičkyLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: VI. Words Fail!. Nelze domluvit!Leoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: VII. Good Night!. Dobrou noc!Leoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: VIII. Unutterable Anguish. Tak neskonale úzkoLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: IX. In Tears. V pláčiLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 1: X. The Barn Owl Has Not Flown Away!. Sýček neodletěl!Leoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
I. Il était une foisMaia Brami
II. Tiens! Une feuille morteMaia Brami
III. Nous danseronsMaia Brami
IV. Boum, boumMaia Brami
V. Combien de fois depuisMaia Brami
VI. Les ombres. C'est l'heureMaia Brami
VII. Cette berceuse du fondMaia Brami
VIII. Des langues de feuMaia Brami
IX. Je l'entends qui sangloteMaia Brami
X. Entends-tu hibouMaia Brami
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 2: XI. AndanteLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 2: XII. AllegrettoLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 2: XIII. Più mossoLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 2: XIV. VivoLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17 (Arr. Rumler for String Orchestra), Book 2: XV. Allegro – AdagioLeoš Janáček, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko
Notturno in B Major, Op. 40, B. 48aAntonín Dvořák, Camerata Zürich, Igor Karsko