Credits:

Maskats, Arturs (1957-)

Description:

Accordion concerto that evokes nostalgia in the listener, with participation of virtuoso composer Sidorova! Arturs Maskatu is a Latvian composer who has been the artistic director of the Latvian National Opera since 1996, and is active mainly in the field of opera and theater, playing a role in the cultural development of Latvia. Many of his works are tonal, easy to listen to, and sometimes romantic. Tango" on this album was one of the finalists in the 3rd Masterprize International Composition Competition (UK) in 2003, and has since become one of Maskatu's best-known works. It is a brilliant work that incorporates the passion reminiscent of Piazzolla into accordion and orchestra. On the other hand, the "Accordion Concerto" from 2021 is dedicated to Kseniya Sidorova, a Latvian player who gave a passionate performance in the previously released "Piazzolla Reflections" (domestic edition NYCX-10190/imported edition ALPHA664). This beautiful work has a nostalgic atmosphere and was created in response to Sidorova's various opinions. Cantus Diatonicus" was written with the godmother of Maskatu in mind, a woman who had a great influence on him as a child. The woman was seriously ill at the time, and Maskatu composed the piece as an expression of his gratitude to her and his hopes and prayers for her recovery. She later made a miraculous recovery.The famous Latvian folk song "Saulit tecej ecedama" played on celesta at the end of the piece deepens the impression. My River Flows to You" is a symphonic poem inspired by the poetry of Emily Dickinson and commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra led by Andris Nelsons. It is dedicated to the late Andrei Yagals, a close friend of Nelsons. Naxos Japan

Tracklisting:

1.Tango
2.Accordion Concerto, What the Wind Told Over the Sea~I. Andante, misterioso -
3.Accordion Concerto, What the Wind Told Over the Sea~II. Allegretto -
4.Accordion Concerto, What the Wind Told Over the Sea~III. Blues -
5.Accordion Concerto, What the Wind Told Over the Sea~IV. Cadenza. Moderato. Toccata
6.Cantus Diatonicus
7.My River runs to thee...