SIMON PARSONS is discomfited by an unflichingly negative portrait of motherhood and its trials
Error message
An error occurred while searching, try again later.Outstanding blend of piano, flute and brass
SIMON DUFF reviews a new composition by German composer and pianist Florian Weber that blurs the line between where improvisation ends and composition begins

Florian Weber
Imaginary Cycle
(ECM Records)
THIS is music for piano, brass ensemble and flute written by the German composer and pianist Florian Weber: an unusual line-up that makes for a bold and exciting sonic journey.
Weber on piano is joined by a group including four euphonium players, a trombone quartet as well as flautist Anna-Lena Schnabel and Michel Godard on the little used tuba “serpent” instrument.
Together they perform a work that blurs the line between where improvisation ends and composition begins. The cycle is spread over four main sections: Opening, Word, Sacrifice and Blessing, all bearing ritualistic connotations.
More from this author
The phrase “cruel to be kind” comes from Hamlet, but Shakespeare’s Prince didn’t go in for kidnap, explosive punches, and cigarette deprivation. Tam is different.

ANGUS REID deconstructs a popular contemporary novel aimed at a ‘queer’ young adult readership

A landmark work of gay ethnography, an avant-garde fusion of folk and modernity, and a chance comment in a great interview

ANGUS REID applauds the inventive stagecraft with which the Lyceum serve up Stevenson’s classic, but misses the deeper themes