Adams: The Dharma at Big Sur / Kraft: Timpani Concerto No.1 / Rosenman: Suite from Rebel Without a Cause

Featuring

John Adams
Joseph Pereira
Leila Josefowicz
Los Angeles Philharmonic
William Kraft
Leonard Rosenman

Did you know?

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Composer Biography

William Kraft, composer of the Timpani Concerto No. 1, was the Principal Timpanist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic for 18 years and also served as its composer-in-residence.

Compositional Technique

William Kraft's Timpani Concerto No. 1 expands the typical orchestral set of four timpani to include a fifth drum and explores unconventional timbres by instructing the player to use gloved hands or muted drums.

Performer Biography

Violinist Leila Josefowicz, the soloist in The Dharma at Big Sur, is a strong advocate for new music and was awarded a 2008 MacArthur Foundation Fellowship for her commitment to contemporary works.

Composer's Artistic Vision

John Adams, composer of The Dharma at Big Sur, intended the piece to reflect the spiritual and physical impact of arriving on the West Coast for those not born there.

Album & Artwork

The album's program is described as a "Ghirardelli's chocolate sampling of delicacies" that musically embody the best of California.

Recording & Production

This album, DG Concerts, features live recordings from Walt Disney Concert Hall, captured on December 5 and 6, 2009.

Composer Biography

Leonard Rosenman, composer of the Suite from Rebel Without a Cause, taught piano to James Dean, who later introduced him to director Elia Kazan, leading to his film scoring career.