Elizabeth Knatt, Rachel Barnes - Brian Andrew Inglis: To Byzantium and Beyond

Date : 2024-06-06

Rating :

Style : Contemporary

Country : 🇩🇪 (Germany)

Label : Kairos - 0022034KAI

Tracks :

• Études de concert (2007–2021) for recorder solo
• Burmese Memory (2010) for electronics
• Sailing to Byzantium (1999) for recorder solo
• Burmese Memory (2010) for electronics

Released : May 2024

Genre : Classical

Info : The album is inspired by the poetry of William Butler Yeats, in particular his work Sailing to Byzantium. The main composition, which features five recorder sizes from tenor to garklein, explores themes of time and transcendence, depicting a journey to an imaginary Byzantium where the poet is transformed into a golden bird. The four movements correspond to stanzas in Yeats’ poem, with recurring elements such as a lyrical refrain and a gyre reflecting the poet’s themes. The trajectory of the piece rises, mirroring the poetic theme, and integrates both old and new forms, incorporating extended techniques and exploring microtones. The Études de concert, written separately but complementary, serve as a sonic precursor to the Byzantium piece, showcasing conventional and extended recorder techniques within various musical forms. The two electronic pieces act as interludes between the main works, offering a diverse musical experience that blends ancient traditions with modern sensibilities. Created in collaboration with experimental musician Scott Taylor, the album reflects a fusion of musical styles and approaches.

Comment : Official release page https://www.kairos-music.com/cds/0022034kai
Booklet https://www.kairos-music.com/sites/default/files/downloads/0022034kai_inglis_itunes_booklet.pdf