Anthony Capparelli - Tales of the Glens (2024) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

Tales of the Glens is a journey through Ireland’s Glens of Antrim, as depicted in Anthony Capparelli’s piano album of compositions by Philip Hammond. Inspired by years of immersing himself in Celtic and Scandinavian traditions, Capparelli’s collection beautifully captures the essence of this picturesque region.

During his tenure as a Thomas J. Watson Fellow, Capparelli delved deep into rural communities, discovering the profound impact of traditional storytelling and music. Guided by the esteemed Liz Weir, a renowned storyteller, he found himself enchanted by the village of Cushendall, where the tapestry of local tales and melodies fueled his passion.

Teaming up with acclaimed composer Philip Hammond, Capparelli aimed to create an album that not only honours the spirit of the Glens but also transcends musical genres. Through thematic resonance and evocative melodies, each composition pays tribute to the people, folklore, and landscapes that have left an indelible mark.

The album features selections from “Miniatures and Modulations,” showcasing Hammond’s innovative interpretations of traditional harp tunes. From the whimsical charm of “The Little and Great Mountain” to the poignant allure of “Open the Door Softly,” listeners can experience these ancient melodies in a fresh light.

The centrepiece of the album is an innovative multi-movement work for pianist and storyteller titled Tales from the Sea of Moyle. A collaboration between Anthony Capparelli, Philip Hammond, and two of Ireland’s most renowned bearers of the storytelling tradition, Liz Weir MBE and Colin Urwin, this work tests the boundaries of collaboration between art forms. Each story is set along the Antrim coast and delivered by the commanding voices of Weir and Urwin, offering the listener guidance, and sometimes warning, on their journey.

Originally from Wisconsin, USA, Anthony Capparelli is a versatile pianist with a diverse musical background. He has performed solo and chamber music in six countries, showcasing his love for modern repertoire influenced by his upbringing in folk and Irish traditional music. Capparelli has toured extensively in the Midwestern USA, Ireland, and the UK as a chamber musician and has coached with renowned ensembles and pianists such as the Elias String Quartet, Kronos Quartet, Orion Weiss, and Emanuel Ax.

With a passion for vocal repertoire, he has participated in masterclasses with prominent vocalists and trained at the International Opera Academy. Capparelli’s commitment to accessibility in music is evident through his teaching and performances in unconventional venues such as rural pubs, hospitals, senior care homes, and prisons. Holding a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Iowa and a Postgraduate Soloist Diploma from KASK/Conservatorium in Belgium, he now resides in Gent, Belgium.

Tracklist:
01. Miniatures & Modulations: If to a Foreign Clime You Go (1)
02. Miniatures & Modulations: If to a Foreign Clime You Go (2)
03. Miniatures & Modulations: An Irish Lullaby (1)
04. Miniatures & Modulations: An Irish Lullaby (2)
05. Miniatures & Modulations: Old Truagh (1)
06. Miniatures & Modulations: Old Truagh (2)
07. Miniatures & Modulations: The Little and Great Mountain (1)
08. Miniatures & Modulations: The Little and Great Mountain (2)
09. Miniatures & Modulations: The Fair Woman (1)
10. Miniatures & Modulations: The Fair Woman (2)
11. Miniatures & Modulations: The Lamentation of Owen O'Neill (1)
12. Miniatures & Modulations: The Lamentation of Owen O'Neill (2)
13. Miniatures & Modulations: Open the Door Softly
14. Aoife Óg
15. Forgotten Longing
16. Tales from the Sea of Moyle: I. Prelude
17. Tales from the Sea of Moyle: II. The Rathlin Fairies
18. Tales from the Sea of Moyle: III. Marina Jane
19. Tales from the Sea of Moyle: IV. The Graveyard Under Wave
20. Tales from the Sea of Moyle: V. The Last Wolf
21. Tales from the Sea of Moyle: VI. The Green Isle
22. Tales from the Sea of Moyle: VII. Postlude


Thanks to the Original customer!