Intermezzo is a musical form, typically a short instrumental piece performed between larger movements. However, with time, the name has also been used to describe short instrumental pieces to be played independently. In the Romantic era, intermezzo was used by composers such as Brahms and Schumann to convey intimate and personal emotions. For example, Brahms' Intermezzo in A Major, Op. 118, No. 2 is a beautiful and introspective piano piece that captures the composer's deep emotions. Similarly, Schumann's Intermezzo from his Carnaval suite expresses a sense of longing and nostalgia through its lyrical melody and delicate harmonies.

David Ezra Okonsar's 12 Intermezzi for the solo piano stands as a testament to the versatility of the intermezzo form. Each piece in this collection is a carefully crafted exploration of a unique emotion or theme designed to elicit a powerful and individual response from the listener. These compositions showcase Okonsar's mastery and creativity, capturing the essence of each emotion with depth and nuance.

The intricate textures and dynamic contrasts in Okonsar's Intermezzi create a sense of tension and release, drawing the listener into a world of complex emotions and musical storytelling. Each piece unfolds like a miniature drama, with a distinct character and narrative arc, from the hauntingly beautiful melodies to the fiery virtuosic passages. As the listener navigates through these musical landscapes, they connect with the universal language of music on a deeply personal level.

01 Intermezzi

Kammerkonzert (Chamber Concerto) is a form of orchestral music that features a soloist or small group of soloists.

Kammerkonzert, by David-Ezra Okonsar, for piano and various instruments, is a modern example of this genre. Subtitled "Romances for Chamber Ensemble," it showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Kammerkonzert's instruments, besides the always present piano, include the alto flute, oboe, and viola. Those varying duets create a unique and captivating musical experience. Each piece is carefully crafted to evoke a range of emotions and tell a story through music. The result is a dynamic and engaging set of compositions that push the boundaries of traditional chamber music. Okonsar's Kammerkonzert is a testament to the versatility and innovation within the genre, offering listeners a fresh and exciting perspective on classical music. 

Okonsar's use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies adds a modern twist to the traditional chamber music form, making Kammerkonzert a genuinely innovative and compelling work. The intricate and layered textures combined with the virtuosic performances of the soloists make this piece a standout in the chamber music repertoire.

The pieces showcase Okonsar's ability to push the boundaries of classical music while still maintaining a sense of tradition and structure. The transitions between movements, each a "romance" on its own, are seamless, with each soloist given the opportunity to shine while blending seamlessly with the piano. Each Romance in the series is both powerful and emotionally charged. 

While Kammerkonzert may be innovative and compelling to some, others may find the intricate textures and virtuosic performances overwhelming and lacking emotional depth. Okonsar brings a new viewpoint on the "romance" genre, providing a refreshing and modern take on classical music, challenging traditional expectations, and pushing the boundaries of what is considered "romantic" in music.

Kammerkonzert is a bold and innovative work that showcases the composer's unique perspective on the genre. It is a piece that demands attention and offers a fresh interpretation of romantic music.

Instrumentarium (piano and..) 
	1: Viola
	2: Alto Flute
	3: Oboe
	4: Glass Marimba
	5: Tenor Trombone
	6: Bass Clarinet
	7: Vibraphone
	8: French Horn
	9: Cello
	10: English Horn
	11: Violin
	12: Timpani
	13: Bassoon
	14: Doublebass

11 - Moon's Tender Embrace (Violino) - FINAL

09 - In The Magic Of Eternity (Violoncello) - FINAL

07 - Swinging Souls Entwined (Vibrafono) - FINAL

02 - Intimate Space (Alto Flute) - FINAL

01 - Strings Whisper Secrets (Viola) - FINAL

The Book of Ezekiel is a treasure trove of vivid, symbolic imagery and profound messages. Ezekiel's visions and prophecies, often perceived as challenging and enigmatic, beckon the reader to embark on a journey of careful study and interpretation, unveiling layers of meaning that are both fascinating and enlightening.

For example, Ezekiel's vision of the Valley of Dry Bones symbolizes Israel's restoration after a period of exile and suffering. The image of bones coming together, being covered with sinews and flesh, and finally receiving breath from God illustrates the hope for renewal and revival. In the vision, Ezekiel witnesses the bones coming to life as a representation of G.d's power to resurrect and renew His people, even when they seem desolate and hopeless.

This vision's vivid imagery and powerful symbolism remind us of G.d.'s enduring faithfulness and His ability to bring about restoration and redemption amid adversity. The book also includes themes of restoration, judgment, and the sovereignty of G.d over all nations. Furthermore, the book highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness to G.d to experience His blessings and protection.

The Book of Ezekiel in the Bible served as the inspiration for David Ezra Okonsar's Symphony No.7, "Ezekiel." The biblical book's vivid imagery and epic narration inspire the symphony with a sense of divine power and majesty that work together to create a deeply spiritual and profound listening experience. "Merkabah," or "throne vision," is the first movement in which the listener is transported to a heavenly realm filled with awe and wonder. It is followed by "Kinnot," a series of musical elegies that explore themes of loss and mourning. The third movement is "The Harlot Bride," where the listener is confronted with a haunting and ethereal depiction of a bride who has been forsaken. The metaphor of a "bride" represents the abandonment and betrayal that the Jewish people experienced during their exile.

"The Valley of Dry Bones," the fourth movement in Ezekiel's prophecy, is a poignant image of resurrection and restoration, symbolizing the hope for renewal and redemption after a period of suffering. The symphony continues with "Destruction of Gog and Magog," a vivid portrayal of the final defeat of evil forces and the establishment of peace and justice, instilling a sense of optimism and hope in the listener.
Ultimately, the symphony concludes with "Shekinah," the final temple vision, a triumphant and exultant final movement that leaves the audience in awe of music's transformative power.

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VI. Shekinah (The Final Temple Vision) Symphony VII, Ezekiel

IV. The Valley of Dry Bones Symphony VII, Ezekiel

I. Merkabah (The "Throne Vision") Symphony VII, Ezekiel

David Ezra Okonsar, Belgian pianist, composer, conductor and musicologist was born in Istanbul, Turkey. He studied piano, composition and orchestration at the Brussels Royal Conservatory and musicology at the Istanbul Technical University. His primary teachers were J. Cl. Vanden Eynden and Alexis Weissenberg for the piano and Madame Jacqueline Fontyn for composition. He is laureate of numerous international piano competitions including the Gina Bachauer. Besides his international concert career he is a prolific composer and music writer.

01 Intermezzi

David Ezra Okonsar

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