The First Day of Summer for flute, violin, viola and 'cello, performed by Iwona Glinka, flute; Yaroslav Tokarev, violin; Ilias Sdoukos, viola; and Renato Ripo, 'cello.  This recording is from the album "Teth", released on the Phasma Music label (distributed by Naxos)in 2021.

"The First Day of Summer" got its title because it was completed on the first day of Summer, June 21, 2019. It starts out with an easy-going blues-styled theme, reminding us of the slower-paced summer days to come. During the course of the work, there are more dramatic and intense sections, evoking the passion and excitement generated by the summer heat.

The First Day of Summer is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/The-First-Day-of-Summer-for-Flute-and-String-Trio/P0207095

For more information on First Time Meeting and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit aaronalter.com/compositions .

The First Day Of Summer for flute, violin, viola and 'cello

String Theory starts out with a slow introduction, inspired by the music of John Coltrane, followed by a Coltrane-inspired theme with a virtuosic solo by the first violin. After the solo, some of the music from the slow introduction returns, followed by a fast finale to the finish line. 

The title of the composition, String Theory, was inspired by the concert where it was performed by the Composers Concordance in New York, entitled "CompCord & Entertaining Science." All the works on the concert program had a scientific theme and the title "String Theory" was a way to use a scientific term and describe the piece at the same time. 

This recording is from the award-winning album "New Music for String Quartet Vol.1" by the ÉxQuartet on the Phasma Music Label (distributed by Naxos,) The members of the ÉxQuartet are Monika Sawczuk, 1st Violin; Łukasz Górewicz, 2nd Violin; Grzegorz Sadowski, Viola and Tomasz Szczęsny, 'Cello. The ÉxQuartet has played String Theory many times and likes it so much that they program it as the "Grand Finale" of the concert or as an encore.

String Theory was a National Finalist in the 2021-2022 American Prize in Chamber Music Composition.

String Theory for String Quartet is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/String-Theory-for-String-Quartet/P0207090

For more information on String Theory and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit aaronalter.com/compositions .

String Theory For String Quartet (inspired by John Coltrane)

This is the finale from Variations on Lo Lanu Ha-Shem for cello and piano, performed by the Cracow Duo (Jan Kalinowski, cello and Marek Szlezer, piano)in Kraków, Poland on September 13, 2020, sponsored by the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust.
To see a video of the complete Variations on Lo Lanu Ha-Shem, please visit the page on my website: https://aaronalter.com/chamber-variations-on-lo-lanu-hashem

Variations on Lo Lanu Ha-Shem are based on my "Lo Lanu Ha-Shem" (a setting of Psalm 115) for Women's Chorus, Flute, Harp, Two Horns, Double-Bass and Tambourine. To hear the original choral work, please visit the page on my website: https://aaronalter.com/choral-lolanuhashem

Finale from Variations on Lo Lanu Ha-Shem for cello and piano

This is the live performance of Aaron Alter's "Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker, performed by the Steinway Artist, Susan Merdinger on November 10, 2022 at the Howard Brubeck Theatre at Palomar College, San Marcos, California. Toccata-Variations combines thematic material from the Charlie Parker tune, "Segment", with stylistic elements of Johann Sebastian Bach's organ toccatas.

Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker is published by Universal Edition. For scores, please visit: https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Toccata-Variations-on-a-Theme-by-Charlie-Parker/P0307969

For more information on Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker, performed by Susan Merdinger, Steinway Artist

This is an interview in 2023 with Aaron Alter and Brent Stevens of KHFM 95.5 FM in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico and https://khfm.org discussing the upcoming World Premiere of his Earth Cantata (inspired by the cantatas of Johann Sebastian Bach) for chorus and chamber orchestra.

Earth Cantata was named as a National Finalist Honorable Mention in the 2024 American Prize, Major Choral Works Composition division and a Silver Medalist at the 2023 Global Music Awards.

Earth Cantata is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Earth-Cantata-inspired-by-the-Cantatas-of-Johann/P0207113

For more information on the Earth Cantata and other compositions by Aaron Alter, please visit his compositions page at: https://aaronalter.com/compositions

Radio Interview with Aaron Alter about Earth Cantata on KHFM 95.5 Albuquerque-Santa Fe

This is the world premiere performance of the second movement (of five movements) of Aaron Alter's Earth Cantata for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra (inspired by the cantatas of Johann Sebastian Bach.) The performance was done by The New Mexico Performing Arts Society, Franz Vote (shown on the right in the image above,) conductor and artistic director.

The second movement of the Earth Cantata is a Fantasy on Bach's "The Art of Fugue" theme. Bach's Art of Fugue theme provides the inspiration for a Rock-inspired musical journey.

While there are no direct quotes of Bach's music in Earth Cantata, it uses the form of Bach's sacred cantatas as a starting point and embraces their deep spiritual and emotional weight and richness, while fusing influences of Jazz, Rock and Pop music in a unique and fresh way. The text is a poetic interpretation of the biblical Psalm 66 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from around the year 1599. The text of the second movement is below.

Tell God: 'O God, what frightful wonder
Thy works do witness, whose great might,
Thy enemies so bringeth under,
Though frown in heart, they fawn in sight!'
All earth and every land therefore
Sing to this God, this God adore!
All earth, I say, and all earth dwellers,
Oh, come, behold, oh, note beholding,
What dreadful wonders from him flow:
More height, more weight, more force enfolding,
Than Adam's earthy brood can show.

The performers were:
Sopranos: Jennifer Perez, Camille Tierney
Altos: Esther Moses, Jacqueline Zander-Wall
Tenors: André García-Nuthmann, Jordan Jones
Basses: Andrew Paulson, Tim Willson

Violins: Elizabeth Baker, Carla Kountoupes
Viola: Gail Robertson
Cello: Sally Guenther
Double Bass: Deborah Dunham
Flute: Linda Marianiello
Oboe: Amanda Talley
Clarinet: Mike Gruetzner
Bassoon: Stefanie Przybylska
French Horn: Michael Walker
Piano: Jeremy Reger
Tambourine: Aaron Alter
Conductor: Franz Vote

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney, Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)

Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009

Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.

Earth Cantata was named as a National Finalist Honorable Mention in the 2024 American Prize, Major Choral Works Composition division and a Silver Medalist at the 2023 Global Music Awards.

Earth Cantata is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Earth-Cantata-inspired-by-the-Cantatas-of-Johann/P0207113

For more information on the Earth Cantata and other compositions by Aaron Alter, please visit his compositions page at: https://aaronalter.com/compositions

Earth Cantata-2nd Movement (inspired by the cantatas of J. S. Bach) for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra

Vival-departures for string orchestra is inspired by the music of Antonio Vivaldi. Although there are no direct quotes of Vivaldi's music in Vival-departures, there is a Vivaldi-like interlude that appears in different forms and becomes a point of departure for musical development. In addition to the influences of Vivaldi's music, you'll hear influences of blues and rock music also.

This track is from the commercial recording "LVIV 1" by the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine on the Phasma-Music label. 

Vival-departures (inspired by the music of Antonio Vivaldi) for String Orchestra is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Vival-departures-inspired-by-the-music-of-Antonio/P0207088

For more information on Vival-departures and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Vival-departures (inspired by the music of Antonio Vivaldi) for String Orchestra

This is the world premiere performance of Aaron Alter's Latin-Jazz-inspired piece, Who, if not You?, for mixed chamber ensemble and tap dancer. The performance was part of a concert entitled 
Composers Concordance & Talujon Present "Ensemble Motion"
Talujon Percussion Meets CompCord Ensemble
Featuring Max Pollak & Dancers
Sunday, March 26th, 2023
St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery, New York

The performers were:
CompCord Ensemble
Michiyo Suzuki, Clarinet
Daniel Schnyder, Soprano Saxophone
Jonathan Finlayson, Trumpet
Gene Pritsker, Electric Guitar
Jay Elfenbein, Double Bass
Peter Jarvis, Conductor

Talujon Percussion Ensemble
David Cossin, Suspended Cymbal
Michael Lipsey, Conga
Riley Palmer, Cajon
Matt Ward, Vibraphone

Tommy Wasiuta, Tap Dancer

Recording by Moti Margolin

For more information on Who, if not You? and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Who, if not You? for Mixed Chamber Ensemble and Tap Dancer - World Premiere in New York

Earth Cantata uses the form of Bach's sacred cantatas as a starting point and embraces their deep spiritual and emotional weight and richness, while fusing influences of Jazz, Rock and Pop music in a unique and fresh way.

The timeline location of each movement of Earth Cantata is:
0:00 - 1st Movement (Fantasy on an Original Chorale)
05:38 - 2nd Movement (Fantasy on The Art of Fugue Theme)
17:56 - 3rd Movement (Aria for Soprano)
23:50 - 4th Movement (Find Bach!, Duet for Tenor and Bass)
32:01 - 5th Movement (Fantasy on an Original Chorale)

The title of the first movement is "Fantasy on an Original Chorale." Aaron's original chorale evokes Bach while adding a Rock-inspired undertone.
The text is:
All lands, the limbs of earthy round,
With triumph tunes God's honour sound: 
Sing of his name the praiseful glory, 
And glorious make his praise's story.

The title of the second movement is "Fantasy on The Art of Fugue theme." Bach's Art of Fugue theme provides the inspiration for a Rock-inspired musical journey.
The text is:
Tell God: 'O God, what frightful wonder 
Thy works do witness, whose great might, 
Thy enemies so bringeth under, 
Though frown in heart, they fawn in sight!' 
All earth and every land therefore 
Sing to this God, this God adore! 
All earth, I say, and all earth dwellers, 
Oh, come, behold, oh, note beholding, 
What dreadful wonders from him flow: 
More height, more weight, more force enfolding, 
Than Adam's earthy brood can show. 

The title of the third movement is "Aria for Soprano." It resembles a Bach aria, but transitions gradually into more modern territory. This movement features Camille Tierney, soprano soloist and Amanda Talley, oboe.
The text is:
The sea up-dri-ed by his hand,
Became a field of dusty sand:
Through Jordan's streams we dry-shod waded,
The joy whereof not yet is faded.
His throne of strength unmov-ed standeth;
His eye on every coast is cast:
The rebel who against him bandeth,
Of ruin's cup shall quickly taste.

The title of the fourth movement is "(Find Bach!), Duet for Tenor and Bass." Bach-influence and modern Jazz meet in this movement. In "Find Bach!", you'll hear Bach's last name, represented musically as B-flat, A, C, B-natural (H in German musical nomenclature) in several sections. Can you find Bach? 
This movement features André García-Nuthmann, tenor; Andrew Paulson, bass and Linda Marianiello, flute.
The text is:
Now as my heart was innocent, 
God heard the hearty sighs I spent: 
What I to prayers recommended 
Was graciously by him attended, 
Praise, praise him then, for what is left me, 
But praise to him: who what I prayed, 
Rejected not, nor hath bereft me 
My hopeful help, his mercies' aid.

The title of the fifth and final movement is "Fantasy on an Original Chorale" and is a recap of the first movement with a more final ending. Aaron's original chorale evokes Bach while adding a Rock-inspired undertone.
The text is:
All lands, the limbs of earthy round,
With triumph tunes God's honour sound: 
Sing of his name the praiseful glory, 
And glorious make his praise's story. 

The performers were: 

Sopranos: Jennifer Perez, Camille Tierney (soprano soloist in 3rd movement)
Altos: Esther Moses, Jacqueline Zander-Wall 
Tenors: André García-Nuthmann (tenor soloist in 4th movement), Jordan Jones
Basses: Andrew Paulson (bass soloist in 4th movement), Tim Willson 

Violins: Elizabeth Baker, Carla Kountoupes
Viola: Gail Robertson
Cello: Sally Guenther
Double Bass: Deborah Dunham
Flute: Linda Marianiello
Oboe: Amanda Talley
Clarinet: Mike Gruetzner
Bassoon: Stefanie Przybylska
French Horn: Michael Walker
Piano: Jeremy Reger
Tambourine: Aaron Alter
Conductor: Franz Vote

Performances were on March 3 and 5, 2023.

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.

Earth Cantata (inspired by the Cantatas of J.S. Bach) for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra (Complete)

Sunset on the Spire (Introspective Blues #2) is an Art Song for Soprano Voice that is in the tradition of Art Songs by Franz Schubert, Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms, but with a more modern instrumental accompaniment of a Jazz Quintet of Trumpet, Tenor Saxophone, Piano, Double-Bass and Drum Set. The text is by the early 20th century American poet, Elinor Wylie. The beginning and end of the song are in a Blues style, while the middle section is in a style that is more Brahms-inspired.

The performers were:
Ljiljana Winkler, Soprano (to whom the song was dedicated)
Peter Oswald, Trumpet
Dennis Brandner, Tenor Saxophone
Jai Jeffryes, Piano
Troy Rinker, Jr., Double-Bass
Lee Jeffryes, Drum Set
Gene Pritsker, Conductor

Sunset on the Spire was premiered by Ljiljana Winkler and the CompCord Ensemble as part of Composers Concordance Presents "Art of the Art Song" November 29, 2023 at DROM, New York City.
This audio recording was by James Lane (Hot Indie Media.)

Sunset on the Spire was awarded a National Finalist Honorable Mention in the 2025 Charles Ives Award for Vocal Chamber Music Composition from The American Prize.

Sunset on the Spire by Elinor Wylie (abridged by Aaron Alter)
All that I dream
By day or night
Lives in that stream
Of lovely light.

Here is the earth,
And there is the spire;
This is my hearth,
And that is my fire.

From the sun's dome
I am shouted proof
That this is my home,
And that is my roof.

And I am wooed
From the moon's brink.

And the days go over,
And the nights end;
Here is my lover,
Here is my friend.

Sunset on the Spire (Introspective Blues #2) is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Sunset-on-the-Spire-Introspective-Blues-2-for-S/P0261476

For more information on Sunset on the Spire and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Sunset On The Spire (Introspective Blues #2) for Soprano voice and Jazz Quintet-Premiere in New York

Lament for Theodore Antoniou for solo alto flute was written in memory of the brilliant composer, conductor and educator, Theodore Antoniou. Aaron Alter had the honor and pleasure of studying with him when Aaron was on a fellowship in Composition at Tanglewood in the summer of 1976 and remembered his impeccable musicianship and high standards. The recording of Lament for Theodore Antoniou by the flutist Iwona Glinka (to whom the work was dedicated) was released in 2021 on the Phasma Music Label (Distributed by Naxos) in a monumental three-volume project with Laments from composers all over the world. The recording received the award of "Best Classical Album" at the 2021 Akademia Music Awards.

Lament for Theodore Antonio is published by Universal Edition. For scores, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Lament-for-Antoniou-for-solo-Alto-Flute/P0261646

Lament for Antoniou Vol. 1

Lament For Theodore Antoniou for solo Alto Flute

Here is the interview that Aaron Alter had on March 18, 2025 with Alexis Corbin, the Executive Director of Classical 95.5 KHFM and KHFM.org about the upcoming world premieres of his "Cantata of Praise" for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra that will be on March 22nd in Santa Fe and March 23rd in Albuquerque by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Franz Vote. The interview was broadcast on March 19, 2025.

Aaron Alter interview on Classical 95.5 KHFM and KHFM.org about premiere of Cantata of Praise

This is a recording of the world premiere performance of the first movement of Aaron Alter's "Cantata of Praise" for chorus and chamber orchestra on March 23, 2025 by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra at the Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Cantata of Praise is a setting of the poetic interpretation of Psalms 118 and 150 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from her book "The Sidney Psalter" from around the year 1599, with some added text from Psalm 118 in the original Hebrew and from The King James Bible.

The music in Cantata of Praise displays a wide range of influences. The first movement shows influences of Gregorian Chant, Renaissance sacred music, Bach’s sacred cantatas, Latin Jazz and "Classic" Rock.

Cantata of Praise was commissioned by the New Mexico Performing Arts Society.

The performers were:
New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra
Franz Vote, Artistic Director and Conductor

Hannah Stevens and Camille Tierney, sopranos
Patricia Henning, Kehar Koslowsky and Melissa Riedel, altos
Gregory Gallagher and André García-Nuthmann, tenors
Javier Ortiz and Andrew Paulson, basses

New Mexico Bach Society Orchestra
Linda Marianiello, flute
Elaine Heltman, oboe
Joshua Petersen, clarinet
Lisa Grodin, concertmaster
Carla Kountoupes, violin 2
Lisa Di Carlo, viola
Joel Becktell, cello
Bob Barney, double bass
Joshua Pielemeier, piano

Text: Selections from Psalms 118 and 150 by Mary Sidney Herbert from
The Sidney Psalter (1599), with some Hebrew text from the original Biblical Psalm
and quotes from the King James Bible.

1st Movement (Chorus:)
(from Psalm 150)
Oh, laud the Lord, the God of hosts commend,
Exalt his pow'r, advance his holiness:
With all your might lift his almightiness;
Your greatest praise upon his greatness spend.
Make trumpet's noise in shrillest notes ascend;
Make lute and lyre his lovèd fame express:
Him let the pipe, him let the tabret bless,
Him organs' breath, that winds or waters lend.

(from Psalm 118)
The Lord is good, you see and know;
Acknowledge then and praise him so:
For so his bounty it extendeth,
No age can say, 'Lo, here it endeth.'
Thou chosen Israel alway,
With me be prest the same to say:
You that of sacred Aaron came,
Be prest with me to say the same:
For so his bounty it extendeth,
No age can say, 'Lo, here it endeth.'
And you his fearers all the rest,
The same to say with me be prest:

(from the King James Bible)
For His mercy endureth forever.

(verse four from the original Hebrew, transliterated by Aaron Alter)
Yom-ru nah yee-ray Ha-Shem,
Ki li-oh-lahm khas-doh.

I sometime straitened lay in thrall:
So lying, I on God did call,
God answer gave me, when I callèd,
And me enlarging, me unthrallèd.

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and
Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.


Cantata of Praise - 1st movement for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra

This is a recording of the world premiere performance of the second movement (Recitative) of Aaron Alter's "Cantata of Praise" for chorus and chamber orchestra on March 23, 2025 by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra at the Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Cantata of Praise is a setting of the poetic interpretation of Psalms 118 and 150 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from her book "The Sidney Psalter" from around the year 1599, with some added text from Psalm 118 in the original Hebrew and from The King James Bible.

The music in Cantata of Praise displays a wide range of influences. The second movement shows influences of Bach’s sacred cantatas and "Classic" Rock ballads.

Cantata of Praise was commissioned by the New Mexico Performing Arts Society.

The performers were:
New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra
Franz Vote, Artistic Director and Conductor

Hannah Stevens, soprano soloist

New Mexico Bach Society Orchestra
Lisa Grodin, concertmaster
Carla Kountoupes, violin 2
Lisa Di Carlo, viola
Joel Becktell, cello
Bob Barney, double bass
Joshua Pielemeier, piano

Text for 2nd Movement (Recitative for Soprano:)
(from Psalm 118)
Ha-Shem doth my party take;
Should fear of man then cause me quake?
Nay, with my friends sith God is placèd,
How can my foes but be disgracèd?

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and
Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.

Cantata of Praise - 2nd movement (Recitative) for Soprano soloist and Chamber Orchestra

This is a recording of the world premiere performance of the third movement (Aria) of Aaron Alter's "Cantata of Praise" for chorus and chamber orchestra on March 23, 2025 by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra at the Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Cantata of Praise is a setting of the poetic interpretation of Psalms 118 and 150 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from her book "The Sidney Psalter" from around the year 1599, with some added text from Psalm 118 in the original Hebrew and from The King James Bible.

The music in Cantata of Praise displays a wide range of influences. The third movement shows influences of Bach’s sacred cantatas and Pop/Rock.

Cantata of Praise was commissioned by the New Mexico Performing Arts Society.

The performers were:
New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra
Franz Vote, Artistic Director and Conductor

Hannah Stevens, soprano soloist

New Mexico Bach Society Orchestra
Linda Marianiello, flute
Elaine Heltman, oboe
Joshua Petersen, clarinet
Lisa Grodin, concertmaster
Carla Kountoupes, violin 2
Lisa Di Carlo, viola
Joel Becktell, cello
Bob Barney, double bass
Joshua Pielemeier, piano

Text: 3rd Movement (Aria for Soprano:)
(from Psalm 118)
More safe it is on God to stay,
Than confidence on man to lay:
More safe who God his refuge taketh,
Than he who kings his succour maketh.
They me environed yet anew,
And swarming fast like bees they flew.
As fire in thorns they quickly quailèd,
So to their wrack his name prevailèd.

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and
Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.

Cantata of Praise - 3rd movement (Aria) for Soprano soloist and Chamber Orchestra

This is a recording of the world premiere performance of the fourth movement (Arioso) of Aaron Alter's "Cantata of Praise" for chorus and chamber orchestra on March 23, 2025 by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra at the Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Cantata of Praise is a setting of the poetic interpretation of Psalms 118 and 150 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from her book "The Sidney Psalter" from around the year 1599, with some added text from Psalm 118 in the original Hebrew and from The King James Bible.

The music in Cantata of Praise displays a wide range of influences. The fourth movement shows influences of Bach’s sacred cantatas and "Classic" Rock.

Cantata of Praise was commissioned by the New Mexico Performing Arts Society.

The performers were:
New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra
Franz Vote, Artistic Director and Conductor

André García-Nuthmann, tenor soloist

New Mexico Bach Society Orchestra
Linda Marianiello, flute
Elaine Heltman, oboe
Joshua Petersen, clarinet
Lisa Grodin, concertmaster
Carla Kountoupes, violin 2
Lisa Di Carlo, viola
Joel Becktell, cello
Bob Barney, double bass
Joshua Pielemeier, piano

Text: 4th Movement (Arioso for Tenor:)
(from Psalm 118)
You righteous troop with me rejoice,
Consort with mine your joyful voice:

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and
Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.


Cantata of Praise - 4th movement (Arioso) for Tenor soloist and Chamber Orchestra

This is a recording of the world premiere performance of the fifth movement (Blues for Alto) of Aaron Alter's "Cantata of Praise" for chorus and chamber orchestra on March 23, 2025 by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra at the Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Cantata of Praise is a setting of the poetic interpretation of Psalms 118 and 150 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from her book "The Sidney Psalter" from around the year 1599, with some added text from Psalm 118 in the original Hebrew and from The King James Bible.

The music in Cantata of Praise displays a wide range of influences. As the title suggests, the fifth movement is strongly influenced by The Blues.

Cantata of Praise was commissioned by the New Mexico Performing Arts Society.

The performers were:
New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra
Franz Vote, Artistic Director and Conductor

Kehar Koslowsky, alto soloist

New Mexico Bach Society Orchestra
Linda Marianiello, flute
Joshua Petersen, clarinet
Lisa Grodin, concertmaster
Carla Kountoupes, violin 2
Lisa Di Carlo, viola
Joel Becktell, cello
Bob Barney, double bass
Joshua Pielemeier, piano

Text: 5th Movement (Blues for Alto:)
(from Psalm 118)
Say, 'Praised his hand, yea, double praisèd,
Be his strong hand so highly raisèd.'

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and
Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.

Cantata of Praise - 5th movement (Blues) for Alto soloist and Chamber Orchestra

This is a recording of the world premiere performance of the sixth movement (Chant for Bass) of Aaron Alter's "Cantata of Praise" for chorus and chamber orchestra on March 23, 2025 by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra at the Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Cantata of Praise is a setting of the poetic interpretation of Psalms 118 and 150 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from her book "The Sidney Psalter" from around the year 1599, with some added text from Psalm 118 in the original Hebrew and from The King James Bible.

The music in Cantata of Praise displays a wide range of influences. As the title suggests, the sixth movement is influenced by Gregorian Chant and Jewish Chant.

Cantata of Praise was commissioned by the New Mexico Performing Arts Society.

The performers were:
New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra
Franz Vote, Artistic Director and Conductor

Javier Ortiz, bass soloist

New Mexico Bach Society Orchestra
Linda Marianiello, flute
Joshua Petersen, clarinet
Lisa Grodin, concertmaster
Carla Kountoupes, violin 2
Lisa Di Carlo, viola
Joel Becktell, cello
Bob Barney, double bass
Joshua Pielemeier, piano

Text: 6th Movement (Chant for Bass:)
(from Psalm 118)
For be assured I shall not die;
But live God's works to testify:
Who though he sore did scourging pain me
He hath but scourged, he hath not slain me.
Who opens to me Justice gate?
I ent'ring may God's praise relate.
This gate unto Ha-Shem showeth
By this to him the righteous goeth.

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and
Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.

Cantata of Praise - 6th movement (Chant) for Bass soloist and Chamber Orchestra

This is a recording of the world premiere performance of the seventh movement (Finale) of Aaron Alter's "Cantata of Praise" for chorus and chamber orchestra on March 23, 2025 at the Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Cantata of Praise is a setting of the poetic interpretation of Psalms 118 and 150 by the Elizabethan poet Mary Sidney Herbert, from her book "The Sidney Psalter" from around the year 1599, with some added text from Psalm 118 in the original Hebrew and from The King James Bible.

The structure of Cantata of Praise is similar to many of Bach's sacred cantatas with large choral movements at the beginning and at the end, and shorter middle movements that feature soloists. The seventh movement (Finale) is for the full chorus and instrumental ensemble.

The music in Cantata of Praise displays a wide range of influences. The seventh movement shows influences of Renaissance sacred music, Bach’s sacred cantatas, "Classic" Rock and Pop/Rock.

Cantata of Praise was commissioned by the New Mexico Performing Arts Society.

The performers were:
New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Orchestra
Franz Vote, Artistic Director and Conductor

Hannah Stevens and Camille Tierney, sopranos
Patricia Henning, Kehar Koslowsky and Melissa Riedel, altos
Gregory Gallagher and André García-Nuthmann, tenors
Javier Ortiz and Andrew Paulson, basses

New Mexico Bach Society Orchestra
Linda Marianiello, flute
Elaine Heltman, oboe
Joshua Petersen, clarinet
Lisa Grodin, concertmaster
Carla Kountoupes, violin 2
Lisa Di Carlo, viola
Joel Becktell, cello
Bob Barney, double bass
Joshua Pielemeier, piano

Text: Selections from Psalms 118 and 150 by Mary Sidney Herbert from
The Sidney Psalter (1599), with some Hebrew text from the original Biblical Psalm
and quotes from the King James Bible.

7th Movement (Finale for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra:)
(from Psalm 118)
Here, here, O Lord, I will thee praise,
Who didst my life to safety raise:
The stone the builders erst refusèd,
In corner now is laid and usèd.
This workmanship in deed divine
Doth in our eyes with wonder shine.
God made this day, he did us send it,
In joy and mirth then let us spend it.
Oh, help us, Lord, oh, help we say,
Oh, prosper, prosper us we pray.
Blest in thy name who coming rideth,
Blest in thy house who dwelling bideth:
Thy house, Lord, mighty God, whence we
Both have our light and sight to see:
O God, my mighty God thou art,
And I to thee will praise impart:
O God, thou art my God, and ever
I will extol thee, ceasing never.

(from Psalm 150)
Let ringing timbrels so his honour sound,
Let sounding cymbals so his glory ring,
That in their tunes such melody be found,
As fits the pomp of most triumphant king.
Conclude: by all that air or life enfold,
Let high Ha-Shem highly be extolled.

Text is from The Sidney Psalter, The Psalms of Sir Philip and Mary Sidney
Published by the Oxford University Press (2009)
Copyright Hannibal Hamlin, Michael G. Brennan, Margaret P. Hannay and
Noel J. Kinnamon, 2009
Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.

Cantata of Praise - 7th movement (Finale) for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra

Here is the World Premiere of Aaron Alter's "Homage to Josquin" on June 28, 2015 at the Santa Fe Flute Immersion at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The performers were Linda Marianiello and Susan Levitin, flutes, Jacquelyn Helin, piano and Aaron Alter "playing" the electric bass and drum parts on his MacBook Pro computer.

Homage to Josquin combines themes from the Renaissance master, Josquin Des Prés with a symphonic piano part and a "Classic Rock" rhythm section.  Despite its rock influence, the form of Homage to Josquin is very classical in design, similar to first movements of sonatas, string quartets and symphonies of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven.  In the sections where the flutes are playing without the piano, you can imagine being transported back in time to early 16th century Italy, where Josquin's music was being performed in the chapels of the rich and powerful, similar to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel, where the premiere was performed.

Homage to Josquin was awarded an Honorable Mention from the 2016-2017 American Prize competition, Chamber Music Composition Division.  For more information on Homage to Josquin and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Homage To Josquin for two flutes piano electric bass and drum set-World Premiere (2015)

Performed by Iwona Glinka, Flute and Naomi Alter, harp, recorded shortly after the World Premiere performance at the National Flute Association Convention in San Diego in 2016. Artwork by Kay Lipton.
Introspective Blues #1 score and parts are now available for purchase from SilverWinds Publishing by clicking on the link below or by pasting it into your browser:
http://www.silverwindspublishing.com/arrangements/introspective-blues-1

The blues can reflect many moods. Introspective Blues#1 for flute and harp starts out reflecting the state of mind of a person thinking a lot about “why things are the way they are” but not ready to express it outwardly. As the work unfolds, our “hero” gains more courage, and by the ending, we hear the outward expression that was suppressed initially.  Many thanks to Iwona Glinka, who brought the flute part to life and to my wife, Naomi Alter, who played the harp, which provided the harmonic and rhythmic drive to the work.  Thanks also to Michail Travlos, who did the excellent recording and to Kay Lipton for the inspiring and evocative artwork. For the video of this performance, please click on https://youtu.be/zvgqfUmCY80
For more information on Introspective Blues #1 and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Introspective Blues #1 for flute and harp

Introspective Blues #1 for flute and harp (2016)

When I was writing “Try it On!”, I was thinking of a woman in a clothing store, trying different clothes on and admiring the way that she looked in the mirror. Some clothes were dressy, some were sexy, some were cute. All made her look beautiful and feel happy.  Try it On! is performed by the flutist Iwona Glinka, from her CD "One Minute" on the Sarton record label (2017), which received a Silver Medal (Outstanding Achievement) at the 2017 Global Music Awards.

Try it On! is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Try-it-On-Theme-and-Two-Variations-for-solo-Flute-Alto-Flute-and-Bass-Flute/P0307072


Try It On! - Theme and Two Variations for solo flute, alto flute and bass flute (2016)

Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker, performed by Dr. Vania Pimentel, to whom the work was dedicated.  The performance was at the Encinitas Library, Encinitas, California on November 8, 2017.  "Toccata-Variations" combines thematic material from the Charlie Parker tune, "Segment", with stylistic elements of J.S. Bach's organ toccatas.

Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker is published by Universal Edition. For scores, please visit: https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Toccata-Variations-on-a-Theme-by-Charlie-Parker/P0307969

For more information on Toccata-Variations on a Theme by Charlie Parker and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Toccata-Variations On A Theme By Charlie Parker (2017) Live Performance

Here is the recording of the performance of For Fred for violin and piano, performed by the fantastic duo of Sini Virtanen, violin and Eunmi Ko, piano, on April 7, 2018 at the USF New Music Festival 2018 at the University of South Florida in Tampa.
For Fred was written in memory of the legendary Chicago-based saxophonist Fred Anderson, in whose band I played piano while in high school. When he passed away in 2010, I wanted to write a piece in his memory and selected violin and piano to capture the solemnity and emotions that I wanted to express. After an elegiac beginning, the work shifts to a slightly more upbeat section, that recalls the music that Fred played at his club, The Velvet Lounge, where the bass player would play a bass line and Fred would improvise on that line. We return to the Elegy and to the memorial tone of the beginning as For Fred ends quietly.

For Fred for Violin and Piano is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/aaron-alter-8349/works/for-fred-for-violin-and-piano-35963

For more information on For Fred and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

For Fred for Violin and Piano (2015) Performance at the 2018 USF New Music Festival

Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry-Theme and Four Variations for flute, alto flute, bass flute and piccolo, recorded by Iwona Glinka, from her album "Daleth" (2018 - Phasma Music #003 (Distributed by Naxos)) winner of a Silver Medal from the 2018 Global Music Awards.

Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry got its name from the first three measures of the Jazz-inspired Theme (for the C Flute), where the harmony journeys through three chords, as your taste buds would journey as they delight in discovering each of the three flavors of Vanilla-Chocolate-Strawberry ice cream. 

Just as you have contrasting flavors juxtaposed in Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry ice cream, these four variations are very different from each other. The First variation for Alto Flute is lyrical and flowing, while the Second variation, also for Alto Flute is more jazz-like. The Third variation, for the Bass flute, is slow and soulful with a tinge of sadness, while the fourth variation, for Piccolo, is bright, extroverted and happy, combining classical and jazz flavors.

Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry, Theme and Four Variations are a fun way for the audience to hear four different kinds of flutes, each with their own distinct personalities. Eating ice cream while listening is optional!

Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry can be heard in a Jazz Big Band arrangement also. 

Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry for Solo Flute, Alto Flute, Bass Flute and Piccolo is published by Universal Edition. For scores, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Vanilla-Chocolate-and-Strawberry-Theme-and-Four/P0207100

For more information on Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Daleth

Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry-Theme and Four Variations

La Joie de Vivre was inspired by the painting by Picasso of the same name. That painting shows a Mediterranean scene with mythological figures, such as satyrs and a centaur and a nude woman playing music and dancing. The music goes through several transformations. It begins in a modal jazz style, but later evolves into folk-rock, blues-rock and finally ends with a folk dance, all of which evoke the spirit of the Picasso painting.

This track is from the recording, "Zayin," by the flutist Iwona Glinka and the pianist Vicky Stylianou that was released on the Phasma Music label (distributed by Naxos.)

La Joie de Vivre (inspired by the painting of Picasso) is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/La-Joie-de-Vivre-inspired-by-the-painting-by-Pica/P0207092

For more information on "La Joie de Vivre" and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions

La Joie De Vivre For Flute And Piano

This recording is the West Coast premiere performance of "Lo Lanu Ha-Shem" (a setting of Psalm 115) for Women's Chorus, Flute, Harp, Two Horns, Double-Bass and Tambourine by composer Aaron Alter, recorded live in concert on March 1, 2020 by Sorelle San Diego at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church in Carlsbad, California.  The performers were:

Sally Dean, Conductor and Director

Sopranos: Patricia Collins, Cassandra DeBellis, Melissa Dennis, Lynelle Hee, Chris Hornback, Anita Ip, Hima Joshi, Kathryn Kinslow, Sue Lievers, Elisabeth Marti, Dori Patterson, Danielle Post and Erin Reid.

Altos: Jill Ballard, Laura Basanese, Marina Brunson, Elizabeth Cooper, Cindy Dankberg, Tess Frame, Agnes Lee, Tarina Lee, Natalie Pasqueralli, Rebecca Ramirez, Zoe Thompkins, Adrienne Valencia and Carrie White

Harp: Naomi Alter; Flute: Erica Gamble; Horns: Warren Gref and Douglas Hall; Double-Bass: Gunnar Biggs; Tambourine: Jill Ballard

Rehearsal Pianist: Anna Juliar
Recording Engineer: Steve Shields
"Lo Lanu Ha-Shem" has received three awards.  It received a Silver Medal at the March 2019 Global Music Awards, an Honorable Mention in the 2019-2020 American Prize in the Major Choral Works division and won 3rd Prize in the 2020-2021 American Prize in the Pops Composition division. 

La Lanu Ha-Shem is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Lo-Lanu-Ha-Shem-A-Setting-of-Psalm-115-for-Women-s-Chorus-and-Instrumental-Ensemble/P0282653

The text is reproduced from “Large-Type Tehillim" by Rabbi Hillel Danziger, Rabbi Nosson Scherman and Rabbi Sheah Brander; with permission of the copyright holders, ArtScroll / Mesorah Publications, Ltd.

For more information on "Lo Lanu Ha-Shem" and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Lo Lanu HaShem Psalm 115 for women's chorus and instrumental ensemble  West Coast Premiere 2020

Piano Sonata (Inspired by Beethoven), My New Beginning - Part I is a compelling blend of musical tradition with newer developments. The work was inspired by the first movement of Beethoven's "Waldstein" Sonata, Op. 53.  Even though there are no direct quotes of Beethoven's music in the Sonata, it is influenced by the form and proportions of each section of the first movement of the "Waldstein", as well as Beethoven's exploitation of the sonority of the piano. The composition is written in a big, orchestral style and projects the full range and sound of the piano. The Sonata is dedicated to the Steinway artist, Susan Merdinger, who premiered the work in November 2018. This recording from Susan's award-winning album "American Melting Pot" was released in 2020 (the 250th anniversary year of Beethoven's birth.)

Piano Sonata (inspired by Beethoven) is published by Universal Edition. For scores, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Works/Piano-Sonata-Inspired-by-Beethoven/P0207102

Aaron Alter - Piano Sonata - Inspired By Beethoven

Aaron Alter is a composer from Carlsbad, California. His music is published by Universal Edition and Silverwinds Publishing. Aaron calls his new music his "New Beginning" because it is an exploration of a new style and energy that defies categorization.    

A native of Chicago, Aaron Alter's musical background was a product of the rich musical life that he found growing up in the Windy City. Aaron received his Bachelor of Music degree from Northwestern University, where he studied piano with Frances Larimer and Gui Mombaerts, and composition with Lynden DeYoung and David Noon. He received his Master of Fine Arts Degree from Princeton University, where he studied with Milton Babbitt and James K. Randall.  

Aaron’s new music was first performed in 2015, with the performance of “Homage to Josquin” for two flutes, piano, electric bass and drum set by The New Mexico Performing Arts Society in Santa Fe, New Mexico. “Homage to Josquin” received an Honorable Mention in the 2016 American Prize competition for Chamber Music Composition.  

Works such as "Solar Rays" and "Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry" defy genres and exist in Classical ensemble and Jazz Big Band versions. Both the classical piano trio (piano, violin and ‘cello) and Jazz Big Band versions of “Solar Rays” have received Silver medals at the Global Music Awards. Aaron’s Introspective Blues #1 for Flute and Harp has become his most popular work, with over 16,100 plays on SoundCloud and over 5,200 plays on Jango Internet Radio. Aaron’s music has been featured on the albums “One Minute”, “Two Minutes”, “Gimel” and “Daleth”, by the flutist Iwona Glinka on the Sarton and Phasma Music labels, all of which have won Silver Medals at the Global Music Awards.  

Aaron has received two commissions in the past two years for choral works with an instrumental ensemble from The New Mexico Performing Arts Society.  The first commission, “Together We Create and Sing! (inspired by the music of Franz Joseph Haydn”) was a semi-finalist at the 2018 American Prize competition for Choral Music Composition and received a Silver Medal at the August 2019 Global Music Awards.  The latest commission, “Lo Lanu Ha-Shem” (a setting of Psalm 115) received a Silver Medal from the March 2019 Global Music Awards.  

Aaron is a regular contributor of compositions to the repertoire of the flutist Iwona Glinka, the pianist and Steinway Artist, Susan Merdinger, the pianist Vania Pimentel, The New Mexico Performing Arts Society and Composers Concordance in New York.  

Aaron also serves as an Executive Board Member of the Carlsbad Friends of the Arts.

Popular tracks by AaronAlterComposer