Customer Reviews

Bridge Of Light

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

 

 

I suppose most will be familiar with Keith Jarrett as a solo pianist or member of a trio. He has released several works of classical performance and original composition. His renditions of Bach's Goldberg Variations, Mozart piano concertos, the music of Handel and Shostakovitch are exemplary. His own classical compositions have, perhaps, stirred more controversy.

This recording, from 1993, features four original compositions including one in which Jarrett accompanies the violinist Michelle Makarski on piano (Sonata for Violin and Piano); the third section, "Dance", is one of the most invigorating and sweetly beguiling melodies I have heard. Elegy for Violin and String Orchestra is less immediatly recognizable as a Jarrett work. It opens with dark strings, bringing to mind the gypsy music of Hungary (where, Jarrett says, his grandmother was born). It is a moody piece - albeit without the dramatic emotional shifts which characterize much Hungarian music. But, then, Hungary remains only a flavor in this rich, evocative composition.

This is contemporary classical music which, while being undeniably of this era, retains a strong sense of melody and harmony. The music does meander at times, giving an impression - not of aimlessness, but of a wandering curiosity; it's like a trip down an unfamiliar, quietly flowing river.

I bought this CD specifically out of curiousity to hear the Viola Concerto "Bridge of Light". It is gorgeous work, which is played beautifully by soloist Patricia McCarty. This piece has a completely tonal sound that is still "fresh" sounding for the modern listener. I highly recommend that violists especially get to know this gem of a viola concerto.

Kenneth Martinson, professor of viola at the University of Florida, asst. editor for the American Viola Society Journal

One of the most beautiful pieces of music composed by Keith Jarrett and very different from his Solo piano and trio works. An essential addition to anyones Jarrett collection.

Phenomenal masterwork from the guy known for his Jazz compositions. Elegy is a virtuoso piece of stunning beauty and thematic flow.

The five-movement piano and violin sonata is worth the price of the disk. Jarrett fans will not recognize his hand in this. It lies somewhere in a triangle between Ravel, Shostakovich and Alban Berg. Each movement is compelling in its own way; the fourth movement reaches a tense, transfixing climax. I also like the first piece on the disk, for violin soloist and string orchestra. I have not been able to appreciate the piece for oboe and strings or the piece for viola and full orchestra; maybe that's my fault. It doesn't matter, because the piano/violin sonata is a revelation.

I am a long-time Jarrett fan, enjoying both his jazz and classical albums. His The Melody, At Night, With You is one of the most gorgeous recordings ever made. But this is contemporary classical music of a most forgettable and unmelodic sort. It will satisfy some conservatory types, no doubt, but I fear that most listeners will be bored if not irritated. Alas.