La musique

Elliott Carter's "La musique" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde chamber music, released on January 1, 2021, under the Genuin label. This album is a testament to Carter's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to contemporary classical music. Spanning just under an hour, the album features a diverse range of compositions that showcase Carter's mastery of form and his unique approach to musical expression.

The album opens with "8 Etudes & a Fantasy for Woodwind Quartet," a series of eight studies followed by a fantasy, each piece offering a distinct mood and tempo, from the majestic "Maestoso" to the rapid "Presto." This suite is a technical tour de force for the woodwind quartet, demonstrating Carter's intricate and complex writing style.

Following this, the album presents "String Trio," a piece that highlights Carter's ability to create depth and texture with a smaller ensemble. The trio is a study in contrasts, with moments of intense energy and quiet introspection.

The second half of the album is dedicated to "Poems of Louis Zukofsky," a song cycle that sets texts by the American poet Louis Zukofsky. These pieces are a beautiful blend of poetry and music, with Carter's compositions enhancing the emotional and intellectual depth of Zukofsky's words.

The album concludes with "Retracing II," "Nine by Five," and "Sonatina for Oboe & Harpsichord: I. —," each piece offering a unique perspective on Carter's musical language. "La musique" is not just a collection of compositions but a journey through the mind of one of the most influential composers of the 20th and 21st centuries. It's an album that rewards repeated listening, revealing new layers and nuances with each play.