January 24, 2025 New Releases from Navona, Ravello, Big Round, and Albany Records

With glimpses of impressionism, of Prokofievian harmonies and Pärtian spirit, and textures reminiscent of Messiaen, MORE RIVERS is wonderfully timeless and universal. Composer Frank Horvat’s piece receives an impeccable performance and interpretation from the adventurous and virtuosic Canadian pianist Christina Petrowska Quilico.

CONSTRAINTS/CREATIVITY considers the humanistic thread connecting disparate cultures across time and space. This collection of 10 original works from composer Kai-Young Chan sets ancient Chinese lyric poetry, contemporary literature, and religious texts to moving choral music. 

Step into a musical world where tradition meets innovation in GALANTERIES, a groundbreaking collection of solo piano works from composer William C. White, brought to life by the brilliant young virtuoso Joseph Vaz. This album turns the traditional mentor-protégé dynamic on its head, as Vaz’s fervor for White’s music inspired the composer to craft these demanding and imaginative pieces specifically for his protégé’s remarkable talents.

Saxophonist Adam Estes and pianist Adrienne Park share transcriptions of master works by Beethoven, Chaminade, Burhans, and Saint-Saëns on their LYRICAL BARITONE, VOL. 1. Borrowed from the flute, bassoon, and cello repertoires, this album celebrates this captivating music reimagined for baritone saxophone and piano duo.

Flutist Norman Menzales’ PANORAMAS explores Filipino heritage through chamber collaborations, blending folk traditions with contemporary styles. Highlights include works by Abelardo, Alcala, Villanueva, Shin, and Balsamo, reflecting themes of love, grief, and cultural identity in vibrant, evocative performances.

Recorded live at the BBC’s renowned Maida Vale studio in London with music arranged and conducted by the Tony Award®-winning and GRAMMY®-nominated Bill Elliott, Livingston Taylor’s SYMPHONIC STEPS delivers a resounding fusion of folk and classical characteristics. Effusing a warm, timeless tone, this Big Round Records release showcases the unwavering creativity and artistic zeal that has earned Livingston enthusiastic listeners worldwide.

The Yakima Symphony Orchestra commemorates 50 years in music with MENDELSSOHN 2 & MENDELSSOHN 2.1, a new recording of Mendelssohn’s monumental choral Symphony No. 2. It’s a challenge to capture this particular symphony’s dual nature — half transcendent exploration of faith, half a testament to the Romantic spirit. Conductor Lawrence Golan is more than up to the task, and so is his YSO: grandeur billows, tenderness whispers, and tonal richness reigns supreme.