Album insights
Gidon Kremer's latest album, "New Seasons," released on Deutsche Grammophon, showcases the recurring theme of seasons in his recordings and concert programs. The core message conveyed is his commitment to staying current, engaging not just in music from the past but also embracing the present, including new pieces. Reflecting on music and seasons, Kremer emphasizes their vital role in culture, serving as a language to articulate the rhythm of life. Following the global acclaim of his recording of Philip Glass's initial "Violin Concerto," Kremer’s new album incorporates Glass's second violin concerto, "The American Four Seasons," after over a decade. "New Seasons" serves as a tribute to contemporary music, a genre cherished by the virtuoso violinist, capable of resonating with a wider audience beyond the perceived intellectual confines of "New Music" or "Contemporary Music." Kremer aims to demonstrate that emotionally charged music can touch every individual and evoke something within them. Featured alongside Glass's compositions on the album are works by Arvo Pärt and Giya Kancheli, both celebrating their 80th birthdays this year, as well as Shigeru Umebayashi. Accompanied by the Kremerata Baltica ensemble, founded by Kremer nearly 20 years ago, the orchestra continues to achieve international success.