Iveta Apkalna - Bach & Glass: Organ Works (2015)

Bach meets Glass! Iveta Apkalna has selected a more than unusual program for her new double OehmsClassics CD, a selection of Bach organ works contrasted by the complete organ works of Philip Glass. To listen to J.S. Bachs organ works in the context of the music of Philip Glass is to be made suddenly aware of the importance, not of the differences, but of the similarities between them. Heard thusly, Bachs music makes a strikingly modern effect. One is repeatedly confronted, in the work of both composers, with monodic developments and a musical architecture oriented on the triad, as well as several over correlated designs discussed in far greater depth in the accompanying booklet. The young, two-time ECHO-Klassik prize recipient Latvian organist Iveta Apkalna combines profound musicality and flawless technique with an unerring instinct for the effect made by music. She has liberated the organ the king of instruments from its dusty image. Ms. Apkalna gives concerts all over the world, achieving for the organ unprecedented brilliance beyond its church music remit through performances at leading festivals and in all the worlds important concert halls, both as a soloist and as a regular guest with major symphony orchestras.