Rivera, P: The Cape Cod Files

Acclaimed duo partners Jon Manasse and Jon Nakamatsu turn their attention to American composers in this jazz-inflected programme of music for clarinet and piano.

Bernstein’s sonata was his first published work. It is a stylish blend of neo-classical formalism and Bernstein’s keen understanding of popular sensibilities. Gershwin is represented here in two arrangements by James Cohn: firstly the evergreen Preludes for piano, followed by a transcription of the iconic song ‘I Got Rhythm’ from the musical Girl Crazy as the disc’s encore. Also featured are two world premiere recordings – John Novacek’s 4 Rags for 2 Jons, a modern take on the style made popular by Scott Joplin, and jazz clarinetist Paquito D’Rivera’s The Cape Cod Files, written in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Cape Cod Chamber Music festival, of which Jon Manasse and Jon Nakamatsu are Artistic Co-Directors. Individually, Jon Manasse and Jon Nakamatsu have developed vast repertoires and lengthy discographies. Jon Manasse has served as the principal clarinetist of The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, the orchestra of the American Ballet Theater, the Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra at Lincoln Center and New York City’s Orchestra of St. Luke’s. He is currently on the faculty at the Juilliard School, the Eastman School of Music and at Lynn Conservatory. Jon Nakamatsu was the Gold Medalist in the 10th Van Cliburn Competition and maintains a rigorous touring schedule.

This collection was inspired by jazz and great jazzmen, particularly Benny Goodman.

Included are pieces such as Paquito D’Rivera’s Cape Cod Files, honouring the 100th anniversary of Goodman’s birth.

Horowitz’ s Sonatina is lightly playful.