Linda Wang presents a program of varied works for solo violin—all are crowd pleasers. Wang truly has the measure of all these works.

For decades now, the U.S.-born pianist and composer Chris Jarrett has been living in Germany. Jazz, classical, avant-garde and ethnic styles merge stunningly in his music. For this reason, he is often referred to by music journalists as a "rebel" against the "piano-establishment". The music of Chris Jarrett is vital and impulsive, full of breaks and surprises and rarely fits into the usual categories of the music industry. For Chris Jarrett, Frank Zappa is an equally valuable model as are the masters of the Baroque or the Renaissance. No wonder his repertoire ranges from atonal miniatures, to sonatas, film scores, ballet and opera. "When pressing the keys with such energy, such pianistic fury, but also with such brilliance and subtlety of attack, while virtually incorporating the bulky instrument ... [he awakens] associations to the mythical Centaur - half human, half piano ... full of fantasy, original, bursting with energy and technically perfect." (Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung) This new release is a truly remarkable album of his original compositions for piano.

In the time of J.S. Bach, religion in general, and devotional music in particular, were a far more embedded and important aspect of people’s everyday lives, and the number of composers needed to meet the demands of the many church services was considerable. Heart & Soul: Devotional Music from the German Baroque, casts light on some of the more important but also more, varyingly obscure figures providing the music necessary, excluding Bach himself but inclusive of a great uncle, Johann Christoph, as well as Buxtehude, Scheidt and others than active. Founded in 1998 by harpsichordist and conductor Matthew Dirst, Ars Lyrica Houston is an ensemble dedicated to high caliber, historically-informed performances of 17th-18th c. music. Since 2000 Houston’s classical music scene has expanded significantly; the organization’s growing list of commercial recordings have earned a Grammy® nomination and have brought international attention to Houston as an early music center. The British counter-tenor Ryland Angel has built an international reputation on both the opera and concert stage, in repertoire ranging from the Baroque to new operatic commissions. “His voice … cradle one’s self in this delicious sound to imagine how the songs of the heavenly cherubs expressed similar enchantments.” (Opera Magazine)

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music

Youmee Kim is the Assistant Professor of Piano at Ohio University, Athens, Ohio. Born in Korea, she received degrees from Ewha Women’s University, Indiana University, and The Ohio State University in piano performance. She specializes in twentieth century American piano music, which has prompted her to release this album dedicated solely to that endeavor. Especially notable on this release is the inclusion of James Primosch’s five-movement work “Pure Contraption, Absolute Gift,” which is receiving here its world premiere recording. The work was commissioned by Youmee Kim and eleven other pianists. Works by Libby Larsen, Henry Cowell, and Benjamin Lees are also featured.

IN Trio is a New York City based creative collective. The bands members have played with notable jazz luminaries. Harvie S has recorded over 400 records, and has performed with Chick Corea, Mike Stern, and Sheila Jordan; Tim performed with Al Foster, Billy Hart, John Patitucci and Randy Brecker; Christian has played with Lee Konitz, Ron Carter, Dave Kikoski, and Jeff Ballard. Cascade is the name of their second release, presenting a collection of stunning originals by all three members. The music has been evolving over four years into its present form, which contains groove, spontaneity, interplay and the element of surprise. There is no mistaking the commitment of this band; collective improvisation is combined with thoughtfully composed parts, while innovative and tasteful use of electronics creates an energetic ambience, and vibe. The bands mission is to create a sound that has a connection to the soul, exploring expressive possibilities, and joining various tributaries of influence.

Classical Music

Classical Music

Classical Music