PRE-ORDER: Peteris Vasks: Gadalaiki (The Seasons) - Terezie [CD]

The present recording, featuring the piano cycle Gadalaiki (The Seasons) by the Latvian composer Peteris Vasks in the performance of Czech pianist Terezie Fialova, is only the fourth complete recording of this extensive work, which originated between 1980 and 2008. The cycle has a unique place in the context of the Vasks's work; although it was not originally conceived as a whole and it's parts were created over the course of several years or even decades, it forms a very compact shape. Inspired by the seasonal changes in nature and characterized by a dramatic dynamic structure, the cycle's music speaks directly to the listeners' senses, evoking contrasting moods and impressions.In relation to his work's inspirational sources in the natural landscapes of northern Europe, the composer has remarked the following: 'I am deeply rooted in nature or, more precisely, Nordic nature. As a Latvian and a Baltic, I am always aware of it's presence. As such, it has influenced all of my music. Nature, as we know it, undergoes changes according to four very distinct seasons. While winters are too long, summers are too short, and all the more beautiful and eagerly anticipated for it. The two seasons in between are quite dramatic. Nature, as God created it, is a perfect world. It's beauty will endure everything, providing that people give up their senseless competition with it's force and relearn how to cherish it and care for it. My enthusiasm for the natural world is even stronger today than it was when I was a boy.' A foremost exponent of contemporary Latvian music, Peteris Vasks has achieved greater international renown than any of his precursors. Since the start of his career, Vasks has acquired the status of Latvia's 'national composer', echoing in his music the current developments as well the turbulent history of his country. His work is equally rooted in Baltic nature and the earthy Latvian folklore and appreciated around the world for it's specificity, but also it's universal relevance, deep spirituality, powerful sensibility and humanistic message. His striking success has been due in no small part to prominent musicians such as Gidon Kremer, Sol Gabetta, the Kronos Quartet, the Hilliard Ensemble and others, for whom Vasks has written his compositions and who have been promoting his music internationally.Terezie Fialova has also recorded two albums for Animal Music with cellist Jiri Barta: Beethoven's Sonatas for Piano and Cello (ANI 101, 2021) and the album Janacek (ANI 122, 2024).