Kalevi Aho: Solo, Vol. 1

Featuring

Samuli Peltonen
Hiyoli Togawa
Piet van Bockstal
Simon Reitmaier
Bram van Sambeek
Marie-Luise Neunecker

Sharon Bezaly
Kalevi Aho

Did you know?

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Composition History

Some of Kalevi Aho's Solo pieces, including Solo IX for oboe and Solo X for horn, were commissioned as 'fillers' to complete recording projects.

Compositional Technique

Solo III for flute features a first movement entirely based on a quarter-tone scale, resembling a single, infinite melody, followed by a virtuoso second movement.

Composition History

Kalevi Aho's Solo series began in 1985 when he retitled an earlier violin piece as Solo I and a new piano piece as Solo II, aiming to eventually compose a work for every orchestral instrument.

Compositional Technique

In Solo V for bassoon, Kalevi Aho uses note repetitions to amplify low notes, creating the impression of latent chords, and also employs multiphonics and micro-intervals.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Kalevi Aho's Solo pieces are characterized by posing significant technical, interpretative, and often physical challenges to the performer, with the goal of showcasing the instrument's versatility and the performer's abilities.

Performer Biography

Sharon Bezaly, the flutist on this album, has inspired composers like Sofia Gubaidulina, Kalevi Aho, and Sally Beamish to write for her, with over 20 dedicated concertos.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Composer Kalevi Aho describes his Solo pieces as 'difficult, but not impossible,' and many musicians confirm that performing them leads to significant personal and musical development.