Classical Music Discoveries

Pianist Sang-Hie Lee performs original works written for two pianos, by internationally recognized composers Gerald Chenoweth, Eun-Hye Park, Lewis Nielson, Daniel Perlongo, and Paul Reller, in ARS NOSTRA: BUT NOW THE NIGHT. Along with collaborating pianist Martha Thomas, the pieces showcase the instrument as a “super piano”, unveiling textures and new combinations of sounds not accessible with a soloist. 

Aber Jetzt Die Nacht by Lewis Nielson, begins by contrasting a distinct motive against outbursts of relatively abstract, dissonant music. About halfway through, the work reveals its true structural goal of exploring the extremes of a piano’s color. This new direction is signaled by two glissandi, initiating the appearance of many more dramatic and unusual piano sounds, including knocking of the instrument’s case and playing touch harmonics inside the piano. 

Sonata For Two Pianos by Paul Reller, contains four major sections shaped by continuous notes moving from different rhythms, from rock and roll to jazz, flowing
fast-slowest-fastest-slow, which can be seen as a microcosm of a classical four-movement sonata.  Influences of Ives and McDowell blend with classic balance and symmetry, creating leaps and chaotic dissonances alongside moments of exotic harmonies and calmer melodies.

 TRACK LISTING
Sang-Hie Lee and Martha Thomas piano duo 

Eun-Hye Park
1 CHERA IN NAIN (A Widow in Nain) (2009)
Kyoung Cho, narrator 

Lewis Nielson
2 ...ABER JETZT DIE NACHT... (2013) 

Gerald Chenoweth
3 CELESTIAL PHENOMENA (2008)
Big Bang
Starshine
Black Hole
Night Sky - Dawn 

Paul Reller
4 SONATA FOR TWO PIANOS (2008)
Moderato con moto
Meno mosso
Allegro 

Daniel Perlongo
5 WINDHOVER FOR PIANO DUO (2009)
Intro
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Trio cantabile