This is the world premiere performance of 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. Variations on Lo Lanu Ha-Shem was dedicated to the Cracow Duo.
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 .

Variations on Lo Lanu Ha-Shem are published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/en/Variations-on-Lo-Lanu-Ha-Shem-for-Cello-and-Piano/P0216348

Variations on Lo Lanu Ha-Shem for 'cello and piano

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

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. 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. 

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.

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

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

Pas de Deux by Aaron Alter, from the album "Lamedh" on the Phasma Music Label(distributed by Naxos.) The performers are Iwona Glinka, flute and Yannis Samprovalakis, bass clarinet.

"Pas de Deux" got its title from the ballet dance of the same name, where you have two dancers, typically a male and female. The female dancer is portrayed by the flute and the male dancer is portrayed by the bass clarinet.

Lamedh

Pas De Deux for Flute and Bass Clarinet

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.

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 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.

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 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

This is the world premiere performance of the third 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 third movement of the Earth Cantata is an Aria for soprano voice and chamber orchestra with the oboe as the featured instrument. It resembles a Bach aria, but transitions gradually into more modern territory.

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 third movement is below.

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 performers were:
Soprano Soloist: Camille Tierney
Oboe: Amanda Talley

Violins: Elizabeth Baker, Carla Kountoupes
Viola: Gail Robertson
Cello: Sally Guenther
Double Bass: Deborah Dunham
Clarinet: Mike Gruetzner
Bassoon: Stefanie Przybylska
Piano: Jeremy Reger
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 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-3rd Movement (inspired by the cantatas of J. S. Bach) for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra

This is the world premiere performance of the fourth 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 fourth movement of the Earth Cantata is a Duet for tenor and bass voices and chamber orchestra with the flute and the featured instrument. Bach influence and Modern Jazz meet. The movement has the subtitle "Find Bach", because the word B-A-C-H is spelled out musically! Can you find Bach?

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.

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 performers were:
Tenor: André García-Nuthmann
Bass: Andrew Paulson
Flute: Linda Marianiello

Violins: Elizabeth Baker, Carla Kountoupes
Viola: Gail Robertson
Cello: Sally Guenther
Double Bass: Deborah Dunham
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 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-4th Movement(inspired by the cantatas of J. S. Bach)for Chorus and Chamber Orchestra

This is the world premiere performance of the fifth and final movement 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 fifth movement of the Earth Cantata is a Fantasy on an Original Chorale by Aaron Alter 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.

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 first movement is below.

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
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
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 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-5th 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.
The video was by James Lane (Hot Indie Media.)

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 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.

One Minute

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.
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

This performance is the West Coast premiere of my Piano Sonata (inspired by Beethoven), performed by the Steinway Artist, Susan Merdinger (to whom it was dedicated) at the Encinitas Library on November 7, 2018. My Piano Sonata 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 my 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.

Piano Sonata (inspired by Beethoven) is published by Universal Edition. For scores and parts, please visit:
https://www.universaledition.com/aaron-alter-8349/works/piano-sonata-inspired-by-beethoven-35898

For more information on the Piano Sonata (inspired by Beethoven) and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Piano Sonata inspired by Beethoven(2012-2018)-West Coast Premiere, November 7, 2018

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

In writing Dance for Apollo, I imagined a scene in an ancient Greek play, where two beautiful priestesses of Apollo were blessing him at sunrise for creating the new day. They danced and played their flutes as they basked in the radiance of the sun.

This track of Dance for Apollo for Two flutes was recorded by Iwona Glinka (playing both flute parts) on her monumental two CD album "Two Minutes" (2018 - Phasma Music #004 (Distributed by Naxos)) a triple Silver Medal winner from the 2019 Global Music Awards.
For more information on Dance for Apollo for Two Flutes and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

Dance For Apollo For Two Flutes

Here is the World Premiere of Aaron Alter's "Lo Lanu Ha-Shem" (a setting of Psalm 115) for Women's Chorus, Flute, Two Horns, Harp, Double-Bass and Tambourine, which took place on January 6, 2019 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico by The New Mexico Bach Society Chorale and Players, and the Santa Fe Women's Ensemble.   The program included the performance of Brahms' Four Songs for Women's Chorus, Two Horns and Harp, Op.17, which has a similar instrumentation to "Lo Lanu Ha-Shem."
"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.
For more information on "Lo Lanu Ha-Shem" and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

The performers were:
Soprano 1:
Julie Kirk, Nancy Maret, Jennifer Perez and Camille Tierney
Soprano 2:
Esther Moses Bergh, Cammy Cook, Amy Gross and Connie Romero
Alto 1:
Christine Keightley, Sue Katz, Connie Marks, Susan Phillips and Jacqueline Zander-Wall
Alto2:
Mickey Bond, Trish Henning, Kehar Koslowsky and Chris Wismer

Linda Marianiello, flute; Naomi Alter, harp; Michael Walker and Katelyn Benedict, horns; Jim Sowards, double-bass; Aaron Alter, tambourine;
Franz Vote, Conductor

Deborah Wagner, Rehearsal Pianist

Lo Lanu HaShem Psalm 115 for women's chorus and instrumental ensemble World Premiere 2019

Here is the video of the world premiere of Aaron Alter's "Dark Minuet" (Lost but not Forgotten) for Brass Quintet, performed as part of Composers Concordance & Project 142 present "Brass Motion"
with The Manhattan Brass Quintet & Curet Performance Project, Thursday, January 31st, 2019
at The DiMenna Center for Classical Music - Benzaquen Hall, New York
For more information on Dark Minuet and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

The performers on this World Premiere performance were:
Manhattan Brass:
Wayne J du Maine, trumpet
Franz Hackl, trumpet
R. J. Kelley, horn
Mike Seltzer, trombone
Jonathan Greenberg, bass trombone
Curet Performance Project:
Megan Curet - choreography
Gerard Minaya, Maria Vittoria Villa, dancers

Image courtesy of pxhere.com.

Dark Minuet (Lost But Not Forgotten) for Brass Quintet - World Premiere in New York

Here is the world premiere of Aaron Alter's "Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry" for Big Band.  This performance was part of the Composers Concordance CompCord Big Band Concert on March 28, 2019 at The Bitter End in New York.  Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry was written for a concert that featured music that hearkened back to the days of the "classic" Big Band, where pieces and solos were much shorter than they are today. We hear the theme presented, followed by two concise and focused solos, followed by a dramatic wrap up with the entire ensemble.

In addition to the Jazz Big Band version, Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry can be heard in its original version for solo flute, alto flute, bass flute and piccolo.  For more information on Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit https://aaronalter.com/compositions .

The performers on this World Premiere performance were:
Gerson Galante (1st solo) and Michiyo Suzuki - Alto Saxophones
Daniel Schnyder and Scott Hoefling - Tenor Saxophones
Stefan Zeniuk - Baritone Saxophone
Franz Hackl, Jonathan Finlayson (2nd solo), Peter Oswald and Jack Walrath - Trumpets
John Clark - French Horn
Mike Seltzer and Jason Jackson - Trombones
David Taylor - Bass Trombone
Carlton Holmes - Piano
Laurence Goldman - Double Bass
Joe Abba - Drums
Gene Pritsker - Conductor

Vanilla Chocolate And Strawberry Big Band Version - World Premiere in New York (2019)

I thought of the title "Popcorn Blues" from the theme, which reminded me of the sound of popcorn popping. “Popcorn Blues” is a variation of the classic 12-bar blues form. After the theme is played, each instrument in the Quartet has a solo, accompanied by the rest of the ensemble. The solos and accompaniments have different personalities and textures, adding to the variety in the work. After the flute solo, there is a short coda to bring the work to a close.
Popcorn Blues was recorded by the flutist Iwona Glinka and the Arundos Trio (Kostas Giovanis, oboe; Grammenos Chalkias, clarinet and Ioannis Evangelatos, bassoon) on the album "Four Minutes" on the Phasma Music label (distributed by Naxos.) For more information on Popcorn Blues and other works by Aaron Alter, please visit aaronalter.com/compositions .

Four Minutes

Popcorn Blues for Woodwind Quartet

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

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.

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