Tales of the Glens: piano music by Philip Hammond with storytelling by Liz Weir and Colin Urwin
Tales of the Glens is a journey through Ireland’s Glens of Antrim, as depicted in Anthony Capparelli’s piano album of compositions by Philip Hammond. Inspired by years of immersing himself in Celtic and Scandinavian traditions, Capparelli’s collection beautifully captures the essence of this picturesque region.
Teaming up with acclaimed composer Philip Hammond, Capparelli aimed to create an album that not only honours the spirit of the Glens but also transcends musical genres. Through thematic resonance and evocative melodies, each composition pays tribute to the people, folklore, and landscapes that have left an indelible mark.
The centrepiece of the album is an innovative multi-movement work for pianist and storyteller titled Tales from the Sea of Moyle. A collaboration between Anthony Capparelli, Philip Hammond, and two of Ireland’s most renowned bearers of the storytelling tradition, Liz Weir MBE and Colin Urwin, this work tests the boundaries of collaboration between art forms. Each story is set along the Antrim coast and delivered by the commanding voices of Weir and Urwin, offering the listener guidance, and sometimes warning, on their journey.
This wonderful recording is distinguished by many things, Hammond’s imaginative compositions, of course, but also terrific playing by Capparelli and arresting recitations by Weir and Urwin. While the release earns its recommendation from Tales from the Sea of Moyle alone, the solo piano pieces accompanying it add greatly to the project’s value.” —Ron Schepper Read More>
“The stories are all surprising and hugely entertaining. The accompanying piano music, played with considerable virtuosity and depth of feeling by Anthony Capparelli, takes us back to childhood into that extraordinary dream-world of Celtic imaginings. ” —Alan Cooper Read More>
“Für dieses Repertoire schöpfte Anthony Capparelli seine Ausdrucksmöglichkeiten von einfühlsam lyrisch bis aufwühlend dramatisch aus” —Winfried Dulisch Read More>