Search - Creston, Schwarz, Seattle Symphony :: Choreographic Suite

More Music from the Rhythm King - This Time All Mature Works

Eugene G. Barnes | Dunn Loring, VA USA | 03/05/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD, Volume II in Delos' and Schwarz' series of Creston CDs, contains all mature Creston, from the Fifth Symphony of 1956 (he was 50 years old) and the Toccata of 1957 to the Choreografic Suite of 1965. The Seattle Symphony and the New York Chamber Orchestra seem quite at ease negotiating the complex rhythmic shifts in these works, and you're going to have a ball just relaxing in front of your stereo observing this guy's subtle moves. Of course there's more to this composer than just rhythm: He's also a consummate craftsman in melody, polyphony, and harmony. But it's the rhythm that'll keep you coming back.For those who already like Creston, and for those who have heard or who own the currently popular Naxos recording of the first three symphonies and are looking for more, this disk will provide an opportunity for further exploration into some of the best of this remarkable composer's symphonic output."

Another sympathetic performance of Creston by Schwarz

Robert Badger | Philadelphia, PA | 05/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Gerard Schwarz has done much for the American composer. He has championed composers such as Hanson and Creston, and thus lead to their revival. Schwarz also studied composition under Creston. He really does have a way with American repertoire, and like his earlier recording of Creston's work, this is another act of loving homage to his teacher.One thing that impresses me greatly about Creston was his obvious technical skill. Each piece on this recording is highly polished and exceptionally well written. It is a shame that Creston doesn't figure on too many orchestral programmes anymore, as his music is definitely fun to play."