Michala Petri - American Recorder Concertos (LP)

Michala Petri, renowned as the First Lady of the Recorder, presents an extraordinary collection of American Recorder Concertos, released in 2019 under OUR Recordings. This album is a testament to Petri's virtuosity and her ability to push the boundaries of the recorder, an instrument often overlooked in the classical music scene.

The album features four specially commissioned works by American composers, each offering a unique exploration of the modern recorder's capabilities. The compositions include Sierra's "Prelude, Habanera & Perpetual Motion," Stucky's "Etudes," and two untitled pieces by another composer, collectively known as "A Pacifying Weapon." The recorder concerto is also included, with its four distinct movements: "Toccata," "Devil's Dance," "Lament," and "Furie."

Accompanied by the Nordic String Quartet and the Royal Danish Academy of Music Concert Band, with Anthony Newman on the harpsichord, Petri delivers a captivating performance that spans a diverse range of styles and techniques. The album's duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes ensures a comprehensive journey through the recorder's expressive potential, from intricate etudes to dynamic concertos.

American Recorder Concertos is not just an album but a celebration of the recorder's versatility and Petri's mastery. It's a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and anyone curious about the recorder's modern possibilities.