Talivaldis Kenins

This Centrediscs recording celebrates the life and work of one of Canada’s most distinguished composers, Talivaldis Kenins (1919-2008), and features five outstanding Toronto performers, including the internationally famous flutist, Robert Aitken.

Kenins is the author of a great many works of chamber music as well as eight symphonies, two piano concerti, three cantatas, an oratorio, many choral works and a number of educational pieces.

“This disc is a choice contribution to recorded Canadian music from a composer of real distinction.” – Paul Rapaport, Fanfare

The New Grove Dictionary describes Kenins’ music as follows:

“The forms are basically traditional (sonata, quartet, suite, divertimento) and the language is dominated by lyrical melody, contrapuntal textures, logical formal structures and a fondness for concertante treatments in which there is an imaginative interplay of instrumental colours. Ostinato patterns abound in a rhythmic style which is supple and, particularly in fast movements, often animated and witty.”

1-4. Sonata for cello and piano

5-7. Concertante for flute and piano

8-10. Piano Quartet No.2

PERFORMERS:

David Hetherington, cello/violoncelle; Robert Aitken, flute/flûte; Paul Meyer, violin/violon; Steven Dann, viola/alto; David Hetherington, cello/violoncelle; William Aide, piano.