Ernest Bloch - Bloch: 4 Episodes / 2 Poems / Concertino / Suite Modale (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich, expressive compositions of Ernest Bloch with this captivating album released by Naxos. Spanning a concise yet impactful 52 minutes, this collection showcases Bloch's mastery of blending diverse influences into a cohesive and evocative musical journey.

The album opens with "4 Episodes," a series of four distinct pieces that range from the darkly humorous "Humoresque macabre" to the serene "Calm," culminating in the exotic "Chinese." Following this, "2 Last Poems" offers two more intimate and reflective pieces, "Hiver" and "Printemps," which translate to Winter and Spring, respectively.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Concertino for Flute and Viola," a three-movement work that highlights the delicate interplay between these two instruments. The album concludes with the "Suite modale," a four-movement suite that showcases Bloch's unique modal language and his ability to create compelling narratives through music.

Ernest Bloch, a Swiss-born American composer, is known for his expressive and deeply personal style, often drawing from his Jewish heritage and a wide range of cultural influences. This album is a testament to his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bloch's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling introduction to his unique musical voice.