Customer Reviews

Beata Moon: Perigee & Apogee

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Too often, 'contemporary classical' music either puts you to sleep or gives you nightmares. Words like 'infectious' and 'fun' don't often come to mind. Composer/pianist Beata Moon's "Perigee & Apogee" is a wonderfully refreshing exception. She has created music that is simultaneously delightful and intriguing. It's substantial music that you can just flat out enjoy, full of feeling without resorting to 'mood' cliches, and smart without reminding you of a math test.

The pieces on this CD cover a wide stylistic range. Some were composed for a dance company, and Moon's wonderful sense of rhythm make it easy to imagine movement being created from them, but they stand completely on their own as compositions. She is by turns evocative, as in the duet 'Winter Sky', then dynamic, as with the exciting 'Safari'. Her sense of rhythm is marvelous, which is an all-too-rare gift among modern composers, many of whom have seemingly given up rhythm as a musical element.

At times the music demands real virtuosity from her performers, and they rise to the challenge. Violinist Chin Kim's gorgeous tone and sharp, supple phrasing seem perfect for the evocative 'Winter Sky'. The ensemble pieces display top notch work, particularly the dynamic Makoto Nakura on marimba. 'Mary', a vocalise featuring Joan LaBarbara's extraordinary style, stands out as the most intriguing experiment among the pieces, utilizing sounds that range beyond the standard classical mode and demonstrating Moon's expansive interest in musical possibilities. Finally, Moon herself proves to be an outstanding pianist in her own right, displaying an impressive blend of technical skill and raw feeling.

A terrific find, and a name to watch.

This CD is a must for any serious new music affictionado. The compositions on this exellent recording are proof that "New Music" is alive, well and in good hands. Ms. Moon's compositions are realized by a talented array of musicians that bring life to her pieces and the proof of her talent lies in every track. Add this CD to your collection and let it take you on a journey into what is timeles,great music.

A friend of mine invited me to see Beata perform in New York at the release party for her second CD "Earthshine" and I have been a fan ever since. It's fascinating to watch such a confident talent truly make her own mark on the contemporary classical world. It was obvious that besides being such a warm and uplifting spirit, she commands the respect of her peers and mentors. She truly has something to contribute to the musical world and that is evident through every note on this CD. Her compositions really do tell stories. I would recommend this to anyone who has a passion for classical music and a spirit adventurous enough to take the contemporary journey with Beata.

Every selection is special in its own way. 'Safari' and 'Antelope Vamp' are exciting and fun. If you're feeling sluggish, these will pick you right up. 'Winter Sky' is a heart-rendingly beautiful duet between violin and piano. The Joan LaBarbara piece ('Mary') is like nothing I've ever heard. It's haunting, almost otherworldly. The entire CD shifts around all kinds of different feelings, and it's always a pleasure to listen to the whole range. But none of it is bland, boring 'New Age' type music, which I generally can't stand for more than the length of an elevator ride.

I've played for several friends, and after awhile, even if I don't say anything to bring attention to it, they often comment on it, ask what it is and where they can get it. There's so much variety that you never get tired of it.

Too often, 'contemporary classical' music either puts you to sleep or gives you nightmares. Words like 'infectious' and 'fun' don't often come to mind. Composer/pianist Beata Moon's "Perigee & Apogee" is a wonderfully refreshing exception. She has created music that is simultaneously delightful and intriguing. It's substantial music that you can just flat out enjoy, full of feeling without resorting to 'mood' cliches, and smart without reminding you of a math test.

The pieces on this CD cover a wide stylistic range. Some were composed for a dance company, and Moon's wonderful sense of rhythm make it easy to imagine movement being created from them, but they stand completely on their own as compositions. She is by turns evocative, as in the duet 'Winter Sky', then dynamic, as with the exciting 'Safari'.

At times the music demands real virtuosity from her performers, and they rise to the challenge. Violinist Chin Kim's gorgeous tone and sharp, supple phrasing are perfect for 'Winter Sky'. The ensemble pieces display top notch work, particularly the dynamic Makoto Nakura on marimba. 'Mary', a vocalise featuring Joan La Barbara, utilizes sounds that range beyond the standard classical mode, demonstrating Moon's expansive interest in musical possibilities. Finally, Moon herself proves to be an outstanding pianist in her own right, displaying an impressive blend of technical skill, musical intelligence and deep feeling.

A terrific find, and a name to watch.