Rautavaara: Modificata - Incantations - Towards the Horizon

More fine music from the eclectic composer

     

Rautavaara's music is hard to classify. It's modern, contemporary, but, with the exception of his earlier works, doesn't really fit in any standard sub-categories. I often feel that his music has sonic worlds similar to the music of Takemitsu.

This release contains two recent works, and one revised work from the composer's serialist period (Modificata). The two concertos are excellent, especially the cello concerto, where there is no solo/tutti formula, but rather a work where the cello is almost always present, as though it were singing. The percussion concerto creates unique sound worlds as well.

Give this music a listen. Rautavaara has a unique voice, and this disc is a good example of his compositions. If you like this, there are two box sets of his concertos and symphonies that are excellent, as well as many other albums of choral music, piano music, and a set of string symphonies which is wonderful.