Delivering a diverse cross-section of dynamically rhythmic and tonally expressive chamber works, composer John K. Leupold II presents his debut release on Ravello Records, EXASPERATING PERPETUATION. Described by the Washington Post as “an imaginative exploration of instrumental timbres,” Leupold’s music seeks to enhance the tonal possibilities of the instruments through the use of tension, personification, and imagery.The incessant and propelling title track explores how the use of rhythms, timbres, tempos, and dynamics can work together to produce music with tension and irritation. Written for violinist Francis Liu, A Slight Angle to the Universe, is inspired by the poem “Waiting for the Barbarians” by C.P Cafavy, and provides a progressively frantic commentary between two distinct voices. In Charismatic Thaumaturge, each instrument personifies a character, from the high-strung oboe and the boisterous bass trombone to the mediating English horn, which tries to calm the escalating tension between the other two instruments. The album culminates with Envisaging a Supercluster, a piece inspired by the beauty and immensity of the three distinct constellations of the regal and austere Leo, the mysterious Monoceros, and the powerful and stern Taurus. • The Washington Post described Leupold’s music as “an imaginative exploration of instrumental timbres and ranges impelled by repetitive melodic figures” • Leupold’s works have been performed by such groups as Inscape Chamber Orchestra, the Left Bank Quartet, and Capital Reeds • Leupold is currently an Assistant Professor of Music at Washington College in Chestertown MD where he teaches music theory, composition, and percussion as well as directs Steel Revolution, Washington College Steel Band• Leupold is an active percussionist, currently performing with the Londontowne Symphony Orchestra and the Anne Arundel Community College Orchestra
