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Here is an invitation to expand your listening palette this winter.
On the new album “Panoramas: Flute Music of the Philippines,” flutist Norman Menzales plays music inspired by love and loss; you hear elements of old romantic songs alongside almost shocking experimental textures.
Menzales is first-generation Filipino-American. This music is an extension of his Sampaguita Flute Project, “a community of musicians that performs classical works inspired from the Philippines.” That community includes friends and collaborators from his days at the Eastman School of Music.
The title work is a romantic suite from 1931, by Nicanor Abelardo, a Filipino composer who wrote traditional love songs and concert pieces. The flute is interwoven with a chamber ensemble featuring the bell-like sound of the celeste, played by Haeyeun Jeun, with Antoine Lefebvre (violin), Jay Julio (viola) and Yolanda Tapia (piano).
The rest of the music is all by contemporary composers, each with a distinct musical voice, and pretty much all new to me.
On “DABDA,” Nilo Alcalain tackles the stages of grief. The challenging early stages are marked by strong musical gestures fitting strong emotions, leading into a plaintive reflection for “bargaining” and the luminous beauty of accepting. Don’t skip ahead — while each piece stands on its own, it feels more rewarding if you experience it all in the proper order.
The most surprising piece here is “Dala-Dalangin (Prayers)” by Alexander John Villanueva, with soprano Joanna Kim singing swooping lines over percussive effects in the flute.
Guitarist and composer Sungmin Shin joins Menzales for “Pinoy Reverie,” his gentle duo inspired by different facets of love. This fascinating exploration wraps up with a driving sonata with a tuneful heart by Joed Balsamo.
Each of these tracks is a discovery and revelation. I hope you enjoy the journey and find something you love here, too.
Mona Seghatoleslami is music director, host and producer on WXXI Classical 91.5 FM.
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