Metier

Earthrise

$18.99

Details

Composer
Liam Bates, Linda Buckley, Dierdre Gribbin, Dierdre McKay, Ian Wilson
Artist
Musici Ireland, Beth McNich
Format
CD
Label
Metier
Released
Jan 17, 2025
Catalog #
MEX77133
UPC
809730713323

About

Musici Ireland: Earthrise Musici Ireland, led by violist Beth McNinch, has established itself as a pioneering force in Irish chamber music since it's formation in 2012. Known for commissioning and premiering contemporary works, the ensemble is distinguished by it's commitment to Irish and female composers, pushing the boundaries of modern chamber music with an interdisciplinary and socially engaged approach. "Earthrise," recorded at Grouse Lodge Studios, captures the ensemble at the height of it's artistic prowess. Produced by Jonathan Allen (Abbey Road Studios) and engineered by Alex Borwick, this album presents a collection of striking new works by leading Irish composers. Each piece offers a distinct perspective, contributing to the evolving landscape of Irish music. Deirdre Gribbin's Before the Moon Shattered and Shone Again explores cyclical time, inspired by Celtic mythology and the constant presence of the moon. The string quartet echoes nature's cycles, symbolizing life's waxing, waning, and renewal, a fitting response to the stillness and disruption brought on by the pandemic. Deirdre McKay's Mr Shah draws inspiration from the quietude of space, contemplating the stark contrast between the near silence of the cosmos and the richness of sound on Earth. It reflects on the solitude of an astrophotographer's nightly exploration of the universe, staring into the vast, soundless expanse. Ian Wilson's Her Charms Invited (String Quartet No. 12) reimagines the intricate ornamentation of traditional Irish sean-nos singing within a contemporary musical framework. The work offers a modern interpretation of ancient melodies, weaving fragments of Irish song into a contemporary context. Linda Buckley's Fiol (for String Trio) treats the ensemble as a twelve-stringed "meta-instrument," evoking the resonances of the Norwegian Hardanger fiddle. The interplay of sympathetic vibrations between instruments creates a rich, layered texture reminiscent of Baroque traditions. The title track, Liam Bates' Earthrise, commissioned by Musici Ireland, draws inspiration from the imagery of our planet in it's natural ascent. Featuring Beth McNinch on viola, the piece captures the viola's soulful resonance, evoking a wandering observer participating in the Earth's evolving rhythms and harmonies. With a strong focus on artistic excellence and cultural storytelling, Earthrise represents Musici Ireland's commitment to new music, offering a thoughtful contribution to Ireland's contemporary chamber music scene.

Tracklist 7 tracks

  1. 1 Before the Moon Shattered and Shone Again 06:55
    Track
    1
    Title
    Before the Moon Shattered and Shone Again
    Duration
    06:55
    Composer
    Deirdre Gribbin
    Ensemble
    Musici Ireland
  2. 2 I. Majestically 08:55
    Track
    2
    Title
    I. Majestically
    Duration
    08:55
    Composer
    Liam Bates
    Performer
    Beth McNinch
    Ensemble
    Musici Ireland
  3. 3 II. Gently 07:20
    Track
    3
    Title
    II. Gently
    Duration
    07:20
    Composer
    Liam Bates
    Performer
    Beth McNinch
    Ensemble
    Musici Ireland
  4. 4 III. With Spirit 08:18
    Track
    4
    Title
    III. With Spirit
    Duration
    08:18
    Composer
    Liam Bates
    Performer
    Beth McNinch
    Ensemble
    Musici Ireland
  5. 5 String Quartet No. 12, "Her charms invited" 07:24
    Track
    5
    Title
    String Quartet No. 12, "Her charms invited"
    Duration
    07:24
    Composer
    Ian Wilson
    Ensemble
    Musici Ireland
  6. 6 Fiol 14:31
    Track
    6
    Title
    Fiol
    Duration
    14:31
    Composer
    Linda Buckley
    Ensemble
    Musici Ireland
  7. 7 Mr. Shah 08:49
    Track
    7
    Title
    Mr. Shah
    Duration
    08:49
    Composer
    Deirdre McKay
    Ensemble
    Musici Ireland