Stefan Wolpe's "Stefan Wolpe, Vol. 8: Music for 2 Pianos" is a captivating exploration of avant-garde chamber music, released on April 5, 2019, under Bridge Records. This album offers a unique listening experience, showcasing Wolpe's mastery of composition and his ability to blend narrative and musical innovation.
The album opens with "March & Variations, Op. 21," setting the stage for the main attraction: a comprehensive performance of "The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos)." This extended work is a musical retelling of the biblical story of Moses, divided into 18 distinct movements. Each section paints a vivid musical picture, from the dramatic "Overture [Portrait of Moses]" to the intense "Moses Buries the Taskmaster in the Sand," and the reflective "Conversation with God." Wolpe's compositional prowess shines through in these movements, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and emotions.
The album concludes with two pieces from "4 Studies on Basic Rows, Op. 23," showcasing Wolpe's experimental side with the energetic "Presto furioso" and the structured "Passacaglia." These pieces demonstrate Wolpe's ability to push the boundaries of traditional piano music.
Clocking in at just over an hour, this album is a testament to Stefan Wolpe's enduring influence on avant-garde and chamber music. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Wolpe's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling journey through the mind of a musical innovator.
2019 Bridge Records2019 Bridge Records
Tracks
March & Variations, Op. 21Stefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 1, Overture [Portrait of Moses]Stefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 2, Serfdom [Lamentation]Stefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 3, Mother Conceals ChildStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 4, Pharoah's Daughter Bathes in the Nile, Finds the BabyStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 5, ProcessionStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 6, Pet of the Court - Political IntrigueStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 7, Moses Among the WorkersStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 8, Moses Buries the Taskmaster in the SandStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 9, Conversation with GodStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 10, Moses Meets Aaron - Command of Moses for the WatersStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 11, March Through the Red SeaStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 12, RestlessnessStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 13, Aaron's DesperationStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 14, Joshua's PleadingStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 15, BacchanalStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 16, Return of Moses - Breaking of Tablets - Moses Falls on the Arm of JoshuaStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 17, Moses Walks Among the People, Commands Some to Be KilledStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
The Man from Midian (Version for 2 Pianos): No. 18, Gathering of PeopleStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
4 Studies on Basic Rows, Op. 23: No. 3. Presto furiosoStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
4 Studies on Basic Rows, Op. 23: No. 4. PassacagliaStefan Wolpe, Quattro Mani
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