Canadian Minimalism
The United States is often seen as the birthplace of minimal music. However, Canada, its closest neighbor, is also a force to be reckoned with. Canadian composers have been giving their own twist to minimalism and post-minimalism for decades, freely blending influences from classical music, romanticism, and rock with the techniques of repetitive music. Their music is rarely heard live on European stages. In this episode, we feature some characteristic minimalist compositions from Canada, including works by Marjan Mozetich, Ann Southam, David Mott, and recently released string quartets by Michael Oesterle.
- Michael Oesterle: ‘Daydream Mechanics’ (2001) for string quartet, from Michael Oesterle-Quatuors. Quatuor Bozzini. QB label CQB2229 CD
- Marjan Mozetich: ‘El Dorado’ (1981) for harp and strings, from Marjan Mozetich-Procession. Amadeus Ensemble + Erica Goodman (harp). CBC Records (Musica Viva) MVCD1038 CD
- Marjan Mozetich: ‘Procession’ (1979) for septet, from Marjan Mozetich-Procession. Amadeus Ensemble. CBC Records (Musica Viva) MVCD1038 CD
- Michael Oesterle: ‘String Quartet No. 4’ (2019) from Michael Oesterle-Quatuors. Quatuor Bozzini. QB label CQB2229 CD
- David Mott: ‘Oh! Mysterious Magnum, Such Magenta Vintage’ (1989) for ensemble. Sound Pressure – Pressure Points. Sound Pressure ensemble. Soundprints SP9301 CD 6-8. Ann Southam: ‘Rivers’, for piano (three parts: 6. 3rd set #5; 7. 1st set #1 + 8. 2nd set #3) (1979-1981), from Ann Southam-Portraits. Christina Petrowska Quilico (piano). Centrediscs CMCCD 10505 CD
- Ann Southam: ‘Seastill’ for electronics (1979), from Ann Southam-Seastill. Ann Southam (electronics). Furiant Records FMDC 4604-2
