Customer Reviews

Chords At Night: The Rare Piano Works of Otto Luening

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I have to say right off the bat that I don't particularly like the works of most 20th century American composers. Despite a childhood spent in a very music-centric household (my dad's a composer and conductor), "modern music" has always eluded me somehow. I don't thrill to Del Tredice; I don't resonate to Corigliano; and John Adams leaves me cold. I am, however, always willing to give things a listen. So when a modern music-loving friend of mine brought his latest discovery over, I gamely sat down in front of the stereo and prepared myself for the usual -- an esoteric bunch of not particularly melodic tunes played by someone who relates to them as national treasures, rather than as music.

What a surprise. From the first Prelude, I was completely hooked. And it wasn't just because the music is so evocative (although many of these pieces, I think, could fairly hold their own against more popular works by Gershwin et al.). My delight and amazement were due mostly to Marc Peloquin's sensitive yet straightforward portrayal of these rarely-performed pieces. I think Peloquin could single-handedly convert me to a modern music lover -- he performs these pieces utterly without pretense and as though he were an intimate friend of the composer with a very clear understanding of the composer's intent. (Read the liner notes and you'll discover that this is pretty close to the truth.) I found myself laughing out loud at points and almost weeping at others -- just the kind of reaction I have when listening to my favourite operas or symphonies. I loved almost every piece, particularly Song Without Words. (And although they at first seem difficult, stick with Sonority Forms I, II and III -- by the time Peloquin finishes the cycle, you'll be glad you did.) What else can I say? A super collection of pieces performed by someone with chops who MEANS it, and has something to say. Try this if, like me, you're "modern music-handicapped" but have an open mind. If you already love the work of America's more esoteric composers, run, don't walk, to this CD. There's a great experience in store for everyone here.

Thanks, Marc Peloquin, for broadening my musical experience. Because of you, I'm going to give 20th-century composers another try. My one complaint: You don't seem to have any other CD's out. . . .

This disc of piano rarities by 20th century composer Otto Luening repays careful listening. While not inaccessible, some pieces are more difficult, but many are lyrical and poetic, often with a quality of mystery. In Marc Peloquin's hands, they are beautifully played and persuasively presented. This CD, clearly a labor of love, is an artistic adventure for those seeking music that is truly different.