Elliott Carter (Symphony No. 1)

Upon first hearing Elliott Carter's symphony from 1942, one will undoubtedly be reminded of the populism of Aaron Copland and Roy Harris. This indeed was at least partly the composer's intention. But the music of this early melodic work is filled with original musical dialogue and harmonic twists that stand out quite prominently. The latter is especially present in the final movement, which has a playful toccata-like feel to it. Obviously, Carter was soon to abandon this "accessible" style and take the musical world into a very advanced and difficult series of compositions. Those later works (beginning with the Cello Sonata) perhaps hold sway over a smaller audience, and the patient listener can in time gain a rewarding experience from their innovative forms. Nevertheless, Symphony No. 1 is an entertaining work that demonstrates the artist's versatility much in the way that Charles Ives' second symphony does. I. Moderately, Wistfully 0:05 II. Slowly, Gravely 8:17 III. Vivaciously 18:40 Performed by the American Composers Orchestra Conducted by Paul Dunkel This recording, which includes works by Francis Thorne and Nicolas Roussakis, was originally released on the CRI label. More information can now been found at the following New World Records website link: http://www.newworldrecords.org/album.... Artwork by Helen Klebesadel: http://www.klebesadel.com