Philip Glass: Orion
Orionwas commissioned for the 2004 Athens Cultural Olympiad. Composer Philip Glass's desire was to create a "truly multi-cultural, international music work." Those familiar with Glass's music will have an idea about what to expect---minimalist motifs repeated over and over, subtly changing both rhythmically and harmonically. But this 90-minute work devotes each of its nine sections to a particular nation: one each to Brazil, Canada, Australia, India, China, The Gambia, and Greece and three in combination. Glass uses instruments indigenous to each country, giving the work a terrific array of colors and flavors. The dark gruntings of the didgeridoo are made even more effective when contrasted with the dainty Chinese pipa, a sort-of cross between the lute and mandolin; the sounds of Nova Scotian fiddler Ashley MacIsaac are sharp edged and folksy; and there is a duet for high wind instrument and sitar. The finale is a Greek song with all the instrumentalists chiming in. "Orion" seems somewhat formless---it's not a concerto or symphony---but its series of movements have great beauty and tonal diversity and keep the ear fascinated. Highly recommended.--Robert Levine