Luciano Berio - Circles · Sequenza I, Sequenza III, Sequenza V (1967, r1991)

Berio has been writing the Sequenzae, a series of works for solo instruments, since 1958. Each Sequenza can be compared to a brief character sketch; each is unique and highly poetic. Berio avoids the tedium inherent in many contemporary studies for solo instruments through a preoccupation with the theatrical aspect implicit in the performance situation itself―another of his long-standing concerns. This disc couples three of these solo works―for flute, soprano, and trombone--with a classic setting of E.E. Cummings for soprano and percussion entitled Circles, a remarkable piece sung by the superlative Cathy Berberian.

Tracklist

1. Circles - Cathy Berberian/Francis Pierre/Jean Pierre Drouet/Jean Claude Casadesus
Francis Pierre, harp
Jean-Claude Casadesus , Jean-Pierre Drouet, percussion
Cathy Berberian, vocal

2. Sequenza I - Aurele Nicolet, flute

3. Sequenza III - Cathy Berberian, vocal

4. Sequenza V - Vinko Globokar, trombone


Ensemble Musique Vivante
Luciano Berio, conductor

Circles and Sequenza I recorded at Südwest-Tonstudio Jansen, Stuttgart.
Sequenza III and V recorded at Studio Angelicum, Milano.
Originally released 1967.

Wergo 6021