Embark on a sonic journey through the majestic landscapes of Alan Hovhaness' imagination with "Mountain Fantasies for Piano." This captivating album, released on April 20, 2023, by MSR Classics, showcases the minimalist genius of Hovhaness, a composer whose work is as breathtaking as the natural wonders that inspired it.
Pianist Haskell Small brings Hovhaness' mountain-inspired compositions to life with attentiveness and nuance, recorded in 2013 and 2014. The album features a collection of sonatas, pastoral pieces, and folk songs, each offering a unique perspective on the grandeur and tranquility of the mountains. From the soaring heights of "Blue Job Mountain Sonata" to the serene beauty of "Hymn for Mt. Chocorua," Small's performances are a testament to the emotional depth and technical mastery of Hovhaness' music.
The album also includes a set of "Twelve Armenian Folk Songs," arranged by Hovhaness, which add a touch of cultural richness to the collection. These pieces, along with the rest of the album, demonstrate Hovhaness' ability to blend Western classical traditions with the musical heritage of his Armenian roots.
"Mountain Fantasies for Piano" is a must-listen for fans of minimalist music and anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of Hovhaness' work. With its 25 tracks and 59-minute duration, this album is a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke the beauty and majesty of the natural world.
Tracks
Blue Job Mountain Sonata: I. AndanteAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Blue Job Mountain Sonata: II. FantasyAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Blue Job Mountain Sonata: III. Jhala to Blue Job Mountain (Allegro)Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Prospect Hill Sonata: I. Andante; Allegro vivaceAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Prospect Hill Sonata: II. AndanteAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Prospect Hill Sonata: III. Allegro vivaceAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Mt. Katahdin Sonata: I. SolenneAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Mt. Katahdin Sonata: II. LullabyAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Mt. Katahdin Sonata: III. Jhala of Larch TreesAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Mt. Katahdin Sonata: IV. Mestoso tragicoAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Pastoral No. 1Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Hymn for Mt. ChocoruaAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: I. Half note = 104Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: II. Half note = 104Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: III. Half note = 104Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: IV. Half note = ca. 60Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: V. Half note = 72Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: VI. Dotted quarter note = 88Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: VII. Dotted quarter note = 96Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: VIII. Dotted quarter note = 84Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: IX. Half note = 120Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: X. Quarter note = ca. 60Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: XI. Quarter note = 126Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
12 Armenian Folk Songs: XII. Dotted quarter note = 100Alan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
Farewell to the MountainsAlan Hovhaness, Haskell Small
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