This months listening is a combination of several musical timbres. Joseph Schwantner's Sparrows is written for winds (flute, clarinet), strings (solo violin, viola, cello), piano, harp, lots of percussion, and solo soprano. It is a wind piece, chamber music, and vocal piece with a text based upon Issa (1763-1828).
The first reaction will probably be 'oh great - weird 20th century stuff.' But the piece has surprisingly tender and beautiful moments throughout. And Schwantner is stunningly brilliant when it comes to tonal color.
At about 16 minutes long, it shouldn't be too taxing and can be found easily on campus through Naxos.
http://bridgewater.naxosmusiclibrary.com/
Enjoy and I am looking forward to your comments. I will leave a copy of the score in the library for those interested in a more detailed listening of the piece.
