Toru Takemitsu - Takemitsu: String Around Autumn / I Hear the Water Dreaming / A Way A Lone Ii (LP)

Immerse yourself in the serene and introspective world of Toru Takemitsu, one of Japan's most celebrated composers, with his captivating album released on September 1, 2002. This exquisite collection of Japanese classical pieces, spanning just under an hour, is a testament to Takemitsu's unique ability to blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary classical music.

The album features four enchanting compositions: "A String Around Autumn," "I Hear the Water Dreaming," "A Way a Lone II," and "Riverrun." Each piece is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, with Takemitsu's signature delicate textures and evocative melodies. The compositions are performed with exquisite precision and sensitivity, bringing to life the subtle nuances and emotional depth of Takemitsu's music.

"String Around Autumn" opens the album with a hauntingly beautiful string quartet, capturing the essence of the changing seasons. "I Hear the Water Dreaming" follows, a solo piano piece that evokes the gentle flow of water and the tranquility of nature. "A Way a Lone II" is a solo guitar piece that explores themes of solitude and introspection, while "Riverrun" concludes the album with a sense of fluidity and continuity, inspired by the famous last words of James Joyce's "Finnegans Wake."

Recorded by the renowned label BIS, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Japanese classical music. Takemitsu's compositions are not just heard but experienced, offering a profound and deeply moving journey into the heart of his musical vision.