Circles

Released in 2018, Circles is a sophisticated recording that pairs Philip Glass's Piano Concerto No. 3 with his interpretations of J.S. Bach's Keyboard Concerto No. 7. This juxtaposition highlights the shared DNA between Bach's baroque counterpoint and Glass's minimalist structures. The Piano Concerto No. 3, a centerpiece of the album, was co-commissioned by several orchestras and is notable for its final movement dedicated to fellow composer Arvo Pärt. This movement departs from Glass's typical high-energy arpeggios, favoring a more somber, tintinnabuli-inspired string texture. The recording features Arturo Stalteri's nuanced piano work, which emphasizes the 'interpretative richness' mentioned in contemporary critiques. While Glass is often associated with large-scale operas and film scores, Circles serves as a reminder of his mastery of the concerto form, offering a more intimate, focused, and academically rigorous side of his late-career output.