Before the Icons ; A Tapestry of Life (2010)

Dubbele 10, voor uitvoering én registratie, op Classics Today: "Here we have one of the greatest living composers working in the full inspiration of his mature style, performed and recorded with world-class passion and intensity. It really doesnt get any better. 'Before the Icons' began life as a piano suite in 1955. In creating this orchestral version Rautavaara separated some of the individual numbers with interludes for string orchestra (Prayers) and added a concluding Amen. The music is wide-ranging and thoroughly approachable, though never cloying or cheap. Its a moving, even noble work, though it does have its lighter moments. Each of the four movements of 'A Tapestry of Life' (2007) is well contrasted and expressively affecting. The performance by the Helsinki Philharmonic under Leif Segerstam is first rate. If you care even mildly about contemporary music, or just good classical music, you owe it to yourself to hear this disc." (David Hurwitz; klik op bijgaande link voor complete tekst)