Pärt: Tabula Rasa

24th December 2000

“The three works on this outstanding recording are representative of the three main styles through which Part (b. 1935) has progressed. Collage (1964) marks the Estonian composer's first true voice, as he eschewed his student experiments with pointillism and aleatoricism in favour of baroque and classical forms. Symphony No. 3 (1971), sumptuously accomplished here by Yuasa and the Ulster Orchestra, dates from his transitional period and the influence of medieval and Renaissance music. "The highlight, both in terms of composition and performance, is Part's seminal 1977 composition Tabula Rasa which led to the development of his current 'tintinnabuli' style of writing. This beautifully lyrical but virtuosic concerto-style work for two violins, string orchestra and prepared piano is executed with elegance and precision by soloists Hirsch and Hatfield, accompanied by the accustomed warmth of the orchestra.”