This album was recorded in September 2021 at Théâtre d'Arras, with Vincent Mons handling the recording, editing, and mastering.
Historical Context
To capture the world of King Lear, Philip Glass immersed himself in the historical background, considering the impact of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot on England.
Composition History
Philip Glass's String Quartet No. 9 is based on his earlier score for the Broadway production of King Lear, directed by Sam Gold.
Compositional Technique
The concert version of King Lear features Philip Glass's characteristic repetitive structures, oscillating harmonies, and gently swaying rhythms.
Performer Biography
The TANA Quartet, consisting of Antoine Maisonhaute, Ivan Lebrun, Julie Michael, and Jeanne Maisonhaute, joined forces with Philip Glass for the premiere of his String Quartet No. 9.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Philip Glass chose to write for string quartet for his King Lear incidental music because he loves its range of emotion and knows how to write for it.
Composer Biography
Philip Glass's String Quartet No. 8 suggests he has entered a 'third period' in his career, characterized by a more classical, introspective approach.
