Charles Roland Berry: Symphony No. 3; Cello Concerto (2007)

The stated purpose of composer Charles Roland Berry is to write pieces that are both distinctively modern and yet accessible and appealing to casual listeners. Considering that some of his most significant instructors and inspirations were the likes of John Cage, Peter Fricker, and Paul Creston -- composers whose works are still sometimes difficult to digest by some -- Berry has certainly succeeded. Surprisingly, much of his music (particularly in underlying harmony and texture in the strings) has very distinct hints of ... Read More

The stated purpose of composer Charles Roland Berry is to write pieces that are both distinctively modern and yet accessible and appealing to casual listeners. Considering that some of his most significant instructors and inspirations were the likes of John Cage, Peter Fricker, and Paul Creston -- composers whose works are still sometimes difficult to digest by some -- Berry has certainly succeeded. Surprisingly, much of his music (particularly in underlying harmony and texture in the strings) has very distinct hints of Aaron Copland. Although the liner notes of this album (written by the composer) describe his background and thoughts on his compositions in general, they regrettably do not go into any detail on the actual works performed on the CD, not even to tell in which year they were composed. Still, listeners interested in getting their proverbial toes wet in the largely unexplored pool of new music will certainly find his rhapsodic cello concerto and pastoral, almost Western-sounding Third... Read Less