John Adams, London Sinfonietta - John Adams: Chamber Symphony / Grand Pianola Music (1994)

Not only is the piece amazing! (of course) but the performance is incredible! The London Sinfonietta plays with remarkable virtuosity and STYLE! As a musician having listened and seen the score, I know this piece is extremely difficult, and they play with wonderful competence and character. Aside from the fantastic playing, the piece is a real ear opener for fans of Adams. The majority of his music (or, that which is being recorded) are large orchestral works. Large orchestras, lots of soloists, etc. Wonderful stuff, if you haven't heard Harmonium yet, go listen. But the chamber symphony is like all the very best things condensed into a small ensemble and 20 or so minutes. The result is a perfect, high energy, high substance, fantastic piece. I bought it a month ago and it hasn't left my CD player since I put it in. If you're a fan, this piece is kind of like a John Adams primer.