David Earl: Cello Sonata/“Mandalas” Piano Suite
David Earl is a fine British composer whose music is at once traditional in its tonality but also absolutely individual and distinctive. This is the first recording of his Cello Sonata, played by cellist George Corbett with James Sherlock (piano); the composer himself performs his exotic Piano Suite No. 3, a musical representation of Buddhist mandalas.
Booklet notes in English, French and German.
Track Listing
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David Earl:
- Sonata for Cello and Piano (1998) − I. Lento pensivo - allegro energico (12:04)
- Sonata for Cello and Piano (1998) − II. Moderato assai (7:19)
- Sonata for Cello and Piano (1998) − III. Elegaico (10:06)
- Piano Suite no. 3 "Mandalas" − I. Maestoso: vajras (4:47)
- Piano Suite no. 3 "Mandalas" − II. Quasi allegro: flames (4:13)
- Piano Suite no. 3 "Mandalas" − III. Lento tranquillo: lotuses (5:32)
- Piano Suite no. 3 "Mandalas" − IV. Adagio ma non troppo: mandala of the five archetypal buddhas (14:48)
Reviews
“Here is a strikingly original voice. [Earl’s music] is bursting with passion, its rhythms energising, its melodies soaring and searing… this disc will blow you away
” —Joe Laredo
“I am astonished that music this good should be so little known… these two large-scale works betoken a genuine composer of considerable talent. I find the music compelling and fascinating. The recordings are excellent and this CD is strongly recommended
” —Robert Matthew-Walker
“For those who like their contemporary music tonal, substantial and individual, I suggest you investigate. David Earl is certainly a name to add to your list
” —Jeremy Nicholas
“The ambitious Cello Sonata… is a moving work and this performance is movingly done. The Third Suite is music that shimmers and flames. The composer is a fine advocate of his own music
” —Rob Barnett
