Immerse yourself in the rich orchestral works of Walter Piston with this captivating album, "Walter Piston: Works for Orchestra." Released on August 13, 2018, under the KEMDISC label, this collection showcases Piston's mastery of composition and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.
The album opens with Piston's Symphony No. 6, also known as 'Gettysburg,' a four-movement work that is both powerful and introspective. The symphony begins with "Fluendo expressivo," a flowing and expressive piece that sets the stage for the energetic "Scherzo." The third movement, "Adagio sereno," offers a moment of calm and serenity before the final "Allegro energico" brings the symphony to a thrilling close.
Following the symphony, the album features the Concertino for Piano & Orchestra, a delightful and virtuosic piece that highlights the interplay between soloist and ensemble. The Concerto for Orchestra is next, a three-movement work that showcases Piston's ability to create a rich and varied orchestral palette. The final piece on the album is the Concerto for String Quartet, Winds & Percussion, a unique and engaging work that combines the timbres of these different instrumental groups.
With a total runtime of just over an hour, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Piston's orchestral works, demonstrating his skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. Whether you're a longtime fan of Piston's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to provide a rewarding and enjoyable listening experience.