2014 Grammy Winner: Best Classical Compendium
2014 Grammy Nominee: Best Chamber Performance
This new recording marks the first complete performance of Harry Partch's major cycle in three parts, Plectra and Percussion Dances. On the original 1953 recording, Castor & Pollux, was missing three movements, and the finale, Even Wild Horses, was missing its tenor saxophone part. The virtuosi of Partch give us revelatory interpretations of these stunningly original scores. Also included is a 7 minute spoken introduction, given by the composer in 1953 on the occasion of the broadcast premiere of this work.
Reviews:
“Partch was truly one of a kind, and the group PARTCH does a wonderful job of capturing both the letter and the spirit of his music.” - The Art Music Lounge (What a Performance! 2019 Winner)
“With a vast array of Partch’s custom-designed instruments it is no surprise that this album is sonically fascinating with vast timbral interest to delight listeners. The album ranges from rhythmic romps such as Pollux Insemination to beautiful soundscapes as with Second Phase. Music buffs and general listeners alike will be intrigued if not amazed.” - This is Classical Guitar
“More important than even an Partch premiere, this is one of those rare releases that present Partch’s music in its proper playful spirit.” - AllMusic (James Manheim)
“This should be mandatory listening for all of us rooted in the conventions of Western instrumentation and musical structures. There is a fascinating timelessness in this music which speaks of ancient lyres and narratives. This stuff is rich and delicate, seemingly naïve, apparently surrealist, outwardly uncomplicated but inwardly drenched in cultural reference and the complexities of the human condition.” - MusicWeb International
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Plectra and Percussion Dances:
I. Castor & Pollux (A Dance for the Twin Rhythms of Gemini)
II. Ring Around the Moon (A Dance Fantasm for Here and Now)
III. Even Wild Horses (Dance Music for an Absent Drama)
Performed by Partch
1953 Spoken Introduction by Harry Partch to the live broadcast premiere
BRIDGE 9432