I very much enjoyed a previous CD release devoted to Meira Warshauer's works for chorus and orchestra (Streams in the Desert). This new album contains two superb, large-scale works: a symphony and a shofar/trombone concerto.
Both are pieces that engage with the spiritual subjects that form the core of all of Warshauer's music. "Tekeeyah (a call)", the concerto for shofar/trombone, is a truly remarkable piece. Inspired by the use of the shofar in Jewish religious ceremonies, the soloist interacts with the orchestra on both instruments equally. It is a thrilling and deeply moving work with a dramatic trajectory -- moving from its atmospheric, otherwordly opening to its ecstatically blazing conclusion.
Excellent performances, especially by shofar/trombone virtuoso Haim Avitsur.
