One cannot help but notice the above title of the latest recording by the formidable Russian bayanist, Friedrich Lips! It is an entertaining play of letters in the title of the last piece on the CD. The composition was requested by Friedrich Lips of M. Bronner, the phenomenal composer of great symphonies, choir – and chamber music oeuvres, as well as various ones for bayan, that he write a piece entitled “Eclipse.” According to the CD liner notes by Lips, “He liked the title at once.” Bronner said, “You understand, Friedrich, for me the title of a piece of music is half the oeuvre. By the way, why “Eclipse”? – So I told him that my family name is part of it. In this oeuvre the soul and its confusion make up the central part. At the same time, the phonogram of lively nature used at the recording depicts a real natural phenomenon, even a disaster is possible. However, everything calms down finally, and because of his touching discovery (the smile of a child) the composer tells us in the end: “No matter what, life goes on.” As I heard this music for the first time, I myself smiled, and I felt the experience of hearing this exquisite composition to be exceedingly touching; it is so perfect in every manner! You, too, will want to listen many times. Other works included are Sonata No. 1 (1977) by G. Bantshikov (b. 1943) of St. Petersburg. He is one of Russia’s most important composers and dedicated this to Oleg Sharov. Also included is the Autumn Melody (2005) by Alexander Cholminov (b. 1925). It was written as the melody for the film “The Chairman” and used only two notes. In the film it is played on bayan and Lips states, “... he succeeded perfectly in creating a masterpiece. The phantasy, deep and emotional, is perfectly constructed and shows – which is essential – a rather high-pitched and rich intonation. Such a gorgeous oeuvre could only be created by a real maestro.” After this we hear Evening Love Ditties (2003) from “...on the background of the Russian landscape” which is the 2nd work in the cycle by Roman Ledenyov (b. 1930), professor at the Moscow Conservatory. E. Podgaits (b. 1949), one of the most important Russian composers of the middle generation, is represented by his Sonata for Bayan in 3 Movements (2004) which was written at the suggestion of Lips. The interesting use of bisbigliando is most apparent in this work. And, finally, the Eclipse for bayan and electronics (2008) by Michail Bronner (b. 1952) appropriately closes the CD. This is another one of the important recordings made by Friedrich Lips, an artist of the very first magnitude, and one who has continued to provide compelling reasons for composers to write for the bayan. In doing so, he has introduced them to the potentials and great possibilities of the instrument as well as enlarging the serious repertoire of the bayan. It is also a recording which everyone will like and, in fact, enjoy! Do not be afraid of the inclusion of music written today and in your time...this is music which belongs to all...regardless of time. I highly recommend the complete CD, not only because of the extremely high standard of performance, which is always the case for Friedrich Lips, but also because of the importance of the repertoire. The CD is produced by Dr. Herbert & Johannes Scheibenreif, as is usual for the Lips recordings. The sound of the instrument, as always, is produced well. The number for the CD is LIPS CD 021 and the title is ecLipse. It is available from many sources, including www.accordion-cd.co.at and www.MusicforAccordion.com The cost is payable in Euro or US$. Reviewed by Joan Cochran Sommers, September, 2010. |
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