Sirinu - Man Hurdy / Gurdy & Me - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

Howard Skempton has established over the last 50 years a reputation as one of the UK's most accomplished and internationally-acclaimed composers, with a style which is based on traditional tonality and lyricism; but he also delights in working with unusual instruments and settings, as is clear from this superb new album including music for hurdy-gurdy, viol, medieval harp, accordion and gamelan alongside 'normal' contemporary Western instruments. This is probably one of the most individual and striking albums of the year! Founded in 1992, Sirinu is a British ensemble specializing in early and world music, performing and recording music from the 11th century to the present day. The group has appeared at festivals and venues throughout Europe. An important element of it's activity is the commissioning of new works for medieval instruments (such as the title track of this album) which directly led to the making of this recording. Founding members Sara Stowe, Matthew Spring and Jon Banks are joined on this recording by contemporary and world music specialists Chris Redgate (oboe), Isabelle Carré (flutes, recorders and gamelan) and Chris Brannick (percussion). Album Tracks 1. Man Hurdy-Gurdy and Me for soprano, hurdy-gurdy, medieval harp and percussion 2. Random Girl for oboe and vibraphone 3. Two Highland Dances for solo lute~No. 2 4. Concerto for Accordion and Oboe for accordion, oboe, flute/alto flute, keyboard and double bass 5. Apple-Blow for soprano and pélog gamelan instruments 6. Bagatelle for solo flute 7. Gentle Melody for solo accordion 8. Winter My Secret for soprano, treble recorder, viol and harpsichord 9. Gloss for oboe and vibraphone 10. Two Highland Dances for solo lute~No. 1 11. Feste's Song for soprano, guitar and treble recorder 12. Beauty of the Morning for sléndro gamelan trio 13. Half Moon for flute and accordion 14.