Jean Françaix began writing music at age six and was also an accomplished concert pianist, studying with Nadia Boulanger, like Philip Glass.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The three composers on this album, John Rutter, Philip Glass, and Jean Françaix, were likely attracted to the harpsichord's historic timbres and the precedent of J. S. Bach's harpsichord concertos.
Composer Biography
Philip Glass, an eminent and influential composer, studied at The Juilliard School and with Nadia Boulanger, and was influenced by Ravi Shankar and Steve Reich.
Album & Artwork
The harpsichord pictured on the cover is a reproduction of a 17th-century Flemish original, built by Zuckermann Harpsichords International, with lid art inspired by a Guardi view of Venice.
Recording & Production
The West Side Chamber Orchestra, based in New York City, was founded by oboist Kathy Halvorson and is making its first recording for Naxos with this album.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Philip Glass found the modern harpsichord capable of a fuller, more robust sound than period instruments, making it a handsome partner for a modern chamber orchestra.
Historical Context
Manuel de Falla's Harpsichord Concerto (1923-1926), written for Wanda Landowska, was a significant precedent for creating a 20th-century context for the harpsichord.
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