DAVID MASLANKA (b.1943): Symphony No. 9.
Catalogue Number: 07O013
Label: Albany
Reference: TROY 1360
Format: CD
Price: $17.98
Description: Given the anticipation, or apprehension, imposed upon a Ninth Symphony by musical folklore, every composer faced with the problem works out their salvation in their own way. In Maslanka's case, this seems to have been to produce an exceptionally personal, surprisingly introverted work, full of allusions to the passing of time, redemption, forgiveness and rest, as exemplified in the poem by W.S. Merwin that prefaces it. The sumptuously harmonized and orchestrated chorales and pounding, propulsive minimalistic eruptions are as impressive as one might expect, but the surprise is that they constitute a relatively small proportion of the piece. If Maslanka's canvases are often vast, panoramic vistas of the John Martin type, much of this piece resembles delicate, beautiful little watercolors, as small chamber ensembles explore a succession of sacred songs and chorales in an atmosphere of gentle intimacy. A bold compositional gambit, as moving as it is unexpected. Texts included. John Koch (reader), Illinois State University Wind Symphony; Stephen K. Steele.