Ensemble Atmosphères begins second season

The Ensemble Atmosphères, a group of about twenty young and energetic musicians, is starting its second season of performances at the Salle Cortot. The ensemble, directed by co-founder Ilyich Rivas, recently welcomed Greek flutist Stathis Karapanos for a special performance.

Program opens and closes with chamber symphonies

The concert featured two chamber symphonies to open and close the evening. The first was George Enesco's work from 1954, the last completed by the Romanian composer. The piece, in four movements, emphasizes brass instruments, including the standout trumpet playing of Daniel Diez Ruiz.

Schönberg's complex chamber symphony performed

Arnold Schönberg's Chamber Symphony op.9 (1906) was also performed. This piece, rooted in German expressionism, features a single 21-minute movement with no orchestral hierarchy. The work's complexity was highlighted by the conductor and musicians, who brought energy and focus to the performance.

Pierre Boulez's Memoriale honors a flutist

Pierre Boulez's Memoriale (1985) was written in memory of Lawrence Beauregard, a flutist who died young. The solo flute part interacts with three string parts that create a reverberating effect. The piece, though not always perfectly balanced, conveys strong emotion and is considered one of Boulez's most refined works.

Gabriela Lena Frank's Andean-inspired work performed

Gabriela Lena Frank's Sueños de Chambi: Snapshots for an Andean album (2002) showcased Stathis Karapanos's flute and Gaspard Thomas's piano. The seven movements reflect the photography of Martín Chambi, with traditional Quechua songs and vibrant musical contrasts. The performance highlighted the musicians' skill and expressive depth.

World premiere of Diógenes Rivas's concerto

The world premiere of Alto Flute Concerto by Venezuelan composer Diógenes Rivas was performed. The piece, written for the Ensemble Atmosphères, features Stathis Karapanos's alto flute. His virtuosic playing and rich tone were central to the work, which explores the flute's flexibility and expressive range.

Upcoming performance with Russian pianist

The Ensemble Atmosphères will host Russian pianist Polina Osetinskaya in a program featuring works by Shostakovich and Gubaidulina at the Salle Cortot on November 28. The performance promises to continue the ensemble's tradition of diverse and challenging repertoire.