A Concordance of Leaves
One of my primary goals as a composer has been to write a large-scale dramatic choral work. Four years ago, I was introduced to the poetry of Philip Metres whose language and social themes instantly struck a core. Specifically, his book, A Concordance of Leaves revealed itself to be the ideal text from which to write a cantata. Given the role of a narrator in the poem, I decided to write the piece for a baritone soloist and choir with piano accompaniment. The cantata was written specifically for the Queens College Vocal Ensemble directed by James John.
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Music Composed by Shanan Estreicher
Poetry by Philip Metres
The Queens College Vocal Ensemble
James John: Conductor
Andrew Wannigman: Baritone
Joseph Liccardo: Piano
Producer and Mixing Engineer: Brian Forbes
Recording Engineer: Bill Siegmund Digital Island Productions
Mastering Engineer: Kevin McNoldy Cphonic Mastering
Cover Art: “Remains” by Zahi Khamis
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“A Concordance of Leaves,” is a captivating musical snapshot . . . the work is really about what makes a nuanced human connection: love despite obstacles, family that is blood and family that is chosen, and learning to speak a partner’s language, literally and figuratively.
Queens Gazette
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Shanan Estreicher's cantata “A Concordance of Leaves” marks the composer's arrival to long form choral music, which clearly shows a comfortable approach to minimalism coupled with a deep affection of the musical language stemming from the Renaissance period and beyond. The recording is very well balanced, clean and articulate in conveying the sonorities that Estreicher holds dear in this fine performance by the Queens College Vocal Ensemble.
M° Salvatore Di Vittorio, Music Director - Chamber Orchestra of New York