This remarkable album juxtaposes the traditions of classical art music with the sonic possibilities of a contemporary ensemble. Homage is paid to the sounds of other musical genres including film, theatre and jazz. The Avenue A Ensemble is dedicated to the commissioning and performance of new music and performance pieces. Led by artistic director Tim Adnitt and conductor Anthony Weeden, the ensemble has performed to critical acclaim across the UK. ‘Rocking Horses’ showcases compositions by Tim Adnitt, Robert Broadley and Matthew King alongside a commission from Andrew McBirnie.
This detailed and often complex music fully exploits the ensemble’s unique sound, paying stylistic homage to contemporary classical, jazz, theatre and film. The performances are by an all-star cast of musicians from diverse musical backgrounds - as well as solo performances, members regularly work with ensembles and artists including the London Symphony Orchestra, Birmingham Contemporary Music Group, Heritage Orchestra, Django Bates, Hermeto Pascoal, Robin Jones & King Salsa and The Specials.
The set recorded for this album is typical of a concert performance by the ensemble. The opening ‘ff’ and ‘Big End’ are sonic partners, rhythmic and angular. These are contrasted by the three movements of the Romantically-influenced ‘Schumann in Three Pieces’, which both hint at and at times quote the music of Robert Schumann as a means of exploring the composer’s psyche. The final track, ‘City’, recalls the character of the opening pieces.
