The most compelling statements of composers can often be found in their miniatures. In celebration of their twentieth anniversary, Thirteen Strings of Ottawa is pleased to present this collection of reflective works from the 17th century to the present day.

Forgotten Dreams, the title track of the album, was graciously composed for the occasion by John Burge. His intriguing orchestration (a double orchestra consisting of sextet one: pairs of violins, violas and celli; and a distant sextet two: six violins) sans double-bass, surrounds the flute soloist with a haunting wave-like transparency that long remains in the listener’s memory.

Founded in 1976 by Brian Law and a group of musicians from the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Thirteen Strings has developed into one of Canada’s foremost chamber ensembles.

JOHN DOWLAND

1-5. Dance Suite

WILLIAM WALTON

6. Touch Her Soft Lips and Part

JEAN SIBELIUS

7. Impromptu for String Orchestra

EDVARD GRIEG

8-9. Two Pieces for String Orchestra

CARL NIELSEN

10. Bohemian-Danish Folkson

MARJAN MOZETICH

11. Calla Lilies

FRANZ SCHUBERT

12. Salve Regina

JOHN BURGE

13. Forgotten Dreams

HENRYK GORECKI

14-16. Three Pieces in Old Style