Kevin Puts, an acclaimed American composer, presents a captivating collection of works in his album "To Touch the Sky, If I Were a Swan, Symphony No. 4." Released on September 10, 2013, under the Harmonia Mundi label, this album spans nearly an hour of enchanting compositions that showcase Puts' unique musical voice.
The album opens with the evocative solo cello piece "If I Were a Swan," followed by the expansive choral and orchestral work "To Touch the Sky." This latter piece is a nine-movement suite that draws inspiration from various poetic and spiritual texts, offering a rich tapestry of emotions and textures. The final piece, "Symphony No. 4," is a four-movement orchestral work inspired by the history and culture of Mission San Juan Bautista in California. Each movement is titled and tells a story, from the historical prelude to the healing song that concludes the symphony.
Throughout the album, Puts demonstrates a remarkable ability to blend contemporary classical music with accessible, engaging melodies and harmonies. His compositions are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, making this album a compelling listen for fans of contemporary classical music. The performances by the various ensembles and soloists are top-notch, bringing Puts' music to life with passion and precision. Whether you're a longtime fan of Kevin Puts or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a rewarding and immersive musical experience.
2013 harmonia mundi usa2013 harmonia mundi usa
Tracks
If I Were A SwanKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: I. Annunciation (Magnificat)Kevin Puts, Conspirare, Mela Dailey, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: II. UnbreakableKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: III. The Fruit of SilenceKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: IV. Falling SnowKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: V. At Castle WoodKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: VI. EpitaphKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: VII. Who has seen the wind?Kevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: VIII. With my two armsKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson
To Touch the Sky: To Touch the Sky: IX. Most noble evergreenKevin Puts, Conspirare, Craig Hella Johnson, Mela Dailey
Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: I. Prelude: Mission San Juan Bautista, ca.1800Kevin Puts, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Marin Alsop
Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: II. Arriquetpon (the diary of Francisco Arroyo de la Cuesta, 1818)Kevin Puts, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Marin Alsop
Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: III. InterludeKevin Puts, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Marin Alsop
Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: Symphony No. 4, From Mission San Juan: IV. Healing SongKevin Puts, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Marin Alsop
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