The Music Of Stephen Jaffe, Vol. 4
Bridge, 2022
8/10
Listen to The Music Of Stephen Jaffe, Vol. 4
This 4th installment of Stephen Jaffe’s vision takes some pretty esteemed help, where 3 works written between 2006-2009 birth a very stunning meshing of orchestral, chamber and classical sounds.
“Light Dances (Chamber Concerto No. 2)” opens the listen with the Da Capo Chamber Players emitting much warmth, mystery and atmosphere across 3 segments that display well timed percussion, dancing keys and playful winds.
The middle track, “String Quartet No. 2 (Aeolian and Sylvan Figures)", spotlights the Borromeo String Quartet for the waves of meticulous and stirring sting interaction that is never predictable, and is capable of tense moments as well as uplifting waves.
“Sonata In Four Parts” exits the listen, and places David Hardy on cello and Lambert Orkis on piano for the intimate and poetic finish that can be bare and calm, but also jumpy and daring in its dynamic interaction between the pair.
Jaffe stated that he’s ‘searching for sounds and musical relationships to create something new, like a poetry--where listeners may discover lyrical expression and an arc of narrative’ with this body of work, and it’s safe to say that he’s succeeded with this exceptionally crafted affair.
Travels well with: Anne-Marie McDermott- Schubert Piano Sonatas; George Walker- Five Piano Sonatas