Octet/Music For A Large Ens

Product Details

Binding : Audio CD
EAN : 0042282728722
Label : ECM
Number of Discs : 1
Product Group : Music
Release Date : 2008-03-17
Running Time : 48minutes
UPC : 042282728722

ASIN : B0000261I7

Track Listings for

Disc-1
1. Music for a Large Ensemble
2. Violin Phase
3. Octet

Customer Reviews

Classic Reich... (2004-05-20)

Different Trains? Nah, this is the groundbreaking work that has given Reich such a cutting edge in the world of 20th century music. The pure tonal palette that he achieves with the 30 plus ensemble in the self titled is incredible, and the complexity and busyness of the 4 part phase shifting of Violin Phase is not to be missed. Octet was a step forward showing his growing interest in complex melodies, and was certainly another evolution in his writing style. If you ever want to collect some beautiful music, this would be a good starting point.

...and they told Mozart he used too many notes! (2002-03-26)

Upon starting the journey into this volume of work, keep in mind that there is a lot to listen for and all of it is soothing yet extremely busy. "Music For A Lage Ensemble" is in four sections, each of which is marked by a key change. The interwoven contrapuntal lines never cease until the music suddenly stops. "Violin Phase" is a great multi-faceted phase piece, unlike his 2-part phases of the previous years, and exploits the remarkable talents of Shem Guibbory. However, it is the "Octet" that takes the prize on this collection, or any other for that matter. You are immediately immersed in a cascading waterfall of pianos over a still stream of sustained strings. The virtuosity needed for the pianists to perform this work is astounding. You only need to look at the cover to see that. The cover of this album is the final ten bars of "Octet." The tempo is MM=204. Then try to play it that speed. The pianists Edmund Niemann and Nurit Tilles endure similar patterns continuously for the entire 17:30 of the piece. The piece ends with a web of pianos, flute and piccolo lines over still sustained strings that leaves the listener very satisfied. All of the music on this record makes you feel happy with your life for the time being. Listen and you will know for yourself.

Reich's Peak Period (2002-01-18)

There are 3 tracks on this CD. Forget "Violin Phase" which really is just filler, and from an earlier era in Reich's development. The other two tracks are what you want to hear. "Octet" and "Music for a Large Ensemble" are Steve Reich at his very finest. He had developed his sound, but was still relatively young and hungry for success. You will listen to this music in complete amazement that these are classic acoustic instruments. The trick in making them sound so unique is in brilliant compositions heard here.

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