Chapeau Beethoven!
Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the most groundbreaking composers ever, celebrates his 250th birthday this month. A festive anniversary that, because of the troubles of the coronavirus, will not quite kick off. As a small honorary salute to the great Ludwig Van, Theme will present two hours of contemporary works from admirers like Frederic Rzewski, Michael Torke, Cornelis de Bondt, P. D. Q. Bach, Hans Kox, and Keith Jarett. Contemporary music inspired and powered up by the revolutionary Sturm und Drang from Beethoven.
Playlist:
1. Frederic Rzewski: part one of ‘The People United Will Never Be Defeated!’ (1975-76), for piano, on Frederic Rzewski: The People United Will Never Be Defeated!, Frederic Rzewski (piano) Hat Art 6066 CD
2. Michael Torke: ‘Ash’ (1989), for orchestra, on Michael Torke: Color Music. Baltimore Symphony Orchestra conducted by David Zinman. Argo 433 071-2 CD
3-4. P.D.Q. Bach (Peter Schickele): ‘The Preachers of Crimetheus’ (1989), two parts of ballet music for orchestra, on P.D.Q. Bach – 1712 Overture & Other Musical Assaults. The Greater Hoople Area Off-Season Philharmonic conducted by Walter Bruno. Telarc 80210 CD
5. Cornelis de Bondt: ‘De deuren gesloten’ (1984-85), for ensemble, on Cornelis de Bondt – Cyclus Het Gebroken Oor. Netherlands Wind Ensemble conducted by Thierry Fischer and Micha Hamel. Donemus Highlights CV 70/71 CD
6. Hans Kox: ‘Variations on a Theme by Ludwig van Beethoven’ (1991), for piano, on Hans Kox – Chamber Music at Orlando. Katherine Dowling (piano). Etcetera KTC 1687 CD
7. Keith Jarrett ‘Vienna Concert, part 1’ (1991) for piano, on Keith Jarrett – Vienna Concert. Keith Jarrett (piano). ECM records 1481 CD
