Return to the Ancestors

Minimalist figurehead Terry Riley compares the system of just intonation to Yoga: "just intonation has a lot to do with achieving the correct proportional balances of notes in order to create one." We hear an example in his rhapsodic yet slightly strange-sounding piano piece "Return to the Ancestors." Also, French superstar pianist Hélène Grimaud plays a more conventional sort of Rhapsody in music by Johannes Brahms, and we hear composer Samuel Barber exercise his considerable singing talent, while accompanying himself at the piano.

Also Featured Tonight:

Erik Satie / Chanson Medieval
Robert Schumann / Violin Sonata No. 1 in A Minor
Nikolas Medtner / "Skazki," Op. 34 (Fairy Tales)
Witold Lutoslawski / Polish Christmas Carols
Howard Hanson / Symphony No. 4, Op. 34, "Requiem"
Peteris Vasks / Lauda