<<  -- 3 --  Ron Bierman    TIGHT DEVELOPMENT

Although Lees hints at the programmatic, his usual care and thought have gone into symphonic construction and the music can be enjoyed without reference to external events. Themes are readily apprehended and developed with both feeling and intelligence. It is a pleasure to see this relatively neglected music recognized by the Grammy Awards Committee.

The composer and Stephen Gunzenhauser have been friends for years and the conductor leads the Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz with authoritative understanding in all three symphonies. The orchestra responds beautifully, handling even the composer's sometimes difficult rhythmic effects with ease.

The final work in the program was recorded in a live performance which took place in June 2000. The longest of the five etudes for piano is under six minutes. Melodies and 'elements' are again readily understood and the forms are straightforward. The Etudes exercise specific piano techniques. In the notes Lees says the first, for example, requires '16th notes alternating between the hands'. James Dick risks breaking fingers as Lees often treats the piano as a percussion instrument. It is a driven but sparkling performance. Robert Spano and the Texas Festival Orchestra are with the pianist all the way.

This 2-CD set is highly recommended.

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