Anna Mattix - Copland, Creston, Kay & Piston: Concertos & Orchestral Suites (2023) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

This recording brings together four extraordinary mid-20th-century composers who helped shape America’s musical destiny. Aaron Copland’s The Tender Land is a moving tribute to the American rancher and farmer. It forms a profound celebration of those unsung heroes of that country’s landscape, and is perhaps his greatest expression of the preciousness of life. Walter Piston is represented by his colorful and beguiling The Incredible Flutist, which depicts a traveling circus led by a magical musician who is able to heal the sorrows of those who hear his music. The two premiere recordings here are the original orchestral version of Paul Creston’s thrilling Saxophone Concerto, and Ulysses Kay’s Pietà – a beautiful elegy inspired by Michelangelo’s masterpiece.

Tracklist
01. The Tender Land Suite: I. Introduction and Love Music
02. The Tender Land Suite: II. Party Scene
03. The Tender Land Suite: III. Finale. Promise of Living
04. Saxophone Concerto, Op. 26 (Version for Saxophone & Orchestra): I. Energetic
05. Saxophone Concerto, Op. 26 (Version for Saxophone & Orchestra): II. Meditative
06. Saxophone Concerto, Op. 26 (Version for Saxophone & Orchestra): III. Rhythmic
07. Pietà (Version for English Horn & Orchestra)
08. The Incredible Flutist Suite: I. Introduction. Siesta in the Market Place
09. The Incredible Flutist Suite: II. Entrance of the Vendors
10. The Incredible Flutist Suite: III. Entrance of the Customers
11. The Incredible Flutist Suite: IV. Tango of the Merchant's Daughters
12. The Incredible Flutist Suite: V. Arrival of the Circus
13. The Incredible Flutist Suite: VI. Circus March
14. The Incredible Flutist Suite: VII. The Flutist
15. The Incredible Flutist Suite: VIII. Minuet
16. The Incredible Flutist Suite: IX. Spanish Waltz
17. The Incredible Flutist Suite: X. Siciliana
18. The Incredible Flutist Suite: XI. Polka Finale