Piano Northwest

Dramatic pianism and spacious prairie beauty. The music on Piano Northwest ranges from the small scale and intimate to the large scale and orchestral; from music that is simple in its clarity to works that are dense with complexity and which require great resources of virtuosity on the part of the performer.

William Pura is a multi-disciplinary composer who has worked in a variety of media, both digital and analogue. Many of his projects have combined elements of both music and visual art, but at the same time he has continued to develop a direct and intimate relationship with the piano.

Pianist Sylvia Shadick-Taylor is a superb soloist and chamber musician who has toured in Europe, Asia and North America. Her highly expressive performances reflect an intense exploration of composers’ artistic visions. Sylvia lives in Edmonton and is active as a teacher, clinician and vocal coach.

Track list:

1. NEMESIS (2008) 10:44
After H.P.Lovecraft

2. – 6. THE STATUE’S DESIRE (1994) 18:59
i. Lento agitato
ii. Moderato
iii. Moderato
iv. Mysterioso
v. Boldly
After Georgio di Chirico

7. – 9. SONATA NORTHWEST 1985 (1990-2006) 32:28
i. Lento cantabile
ii. Trio
iii. Ballade
With George Andrix, harmonica
Jonathan Taylor, percussion

Reviews:

“Equally known as a visual artist, Pura paints his musical canvas with wide sweeps of gestural language that ranges from pounding explosions of densely harmonized cluster chords to gossamer light, more linear textures. […] Edmonton pianist Sylvia Shadick-Taylor proves an ideal partner in realizing Pura’s creative vision, displaying her bravura technique and an utter commitment to this complex music.” – Winnipeg Free Press