Arvo Pärt, an Estonian composer, describes his distinctive tintinnabuli style as a search for unity and a dialogue with God, inspired by the sound of ringing bells.
Performer Biography
Rachel Yonan, the violist on this album, co-founded the Marinus Ensemble with her brother, cellist Joseph Kuipers, dedicated to engaging audiences through interactive performance.
Instruments
Violist Rachel Yonan plays a Gabrielle Kundert viola, which is modeled on a Camillo Camilli viola from 1739.
Album & Artwork
The album "Kiss on Wood" explores the polarity of light and darkness, featuring works by Sir James MacMillan, Arvo Pärt, and Robert Schumann.
Recording & Production
This album features the first recording of Sir James MacMillan's Kiss on Wood for viola and piano, arranged and performed by Rachel Yonan.
Composer Biography
Sir James MacMillan, a Scottish composer and conductor, is internationally recognized for his inventive and penetrating works, which are heavily influenced by his Scottish heritage and Roman Catholic faith.
Compositional Technique
Arvo Pärt's tintinnabuli style, which he developed after a decade of studying Medieval and Renaissance church music, strips down musical elements to essentials, uniting two voices: one arpeggiating a triad and another moving freely but diatonically.
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