"Windows"

“Windows,” the first release from UNCSA Media, embraces virtuosity, diversity and reflection.

The compilation features works by four contemporary composers performed by UNCSA School of Music faculty artists in an eclectic program that binds together different genres, aesthetics, instrumentation and compositional styles.

Featured on the album are Reena Esmail's Hindustani-inspired quintet, “Khirkiyaan (Windows)” three transformations for brass quintet (2017); Jessie Montgomery's ode to friendship and adventure, Duo for violin and cello (2015); and a jazz-inspired trio by esteemed composer Valerie Coleman, Trio Toccata for oboe, bassoon and piano (2014). The album also presents the world premiere recording of Kamala Sankaram's new witty song cycle, “A Certain Age” for mezzo-soprano, bassoon, and piano (2023), featuring the whimsical and poignant poems of Judith Viorst (“Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day”), former U.S. Poet Laureate Kay Ryan and Dorothy Parker.

“Windows” allows us to see a new future of contemporary classical music, expanding the genre and shining a light on today’s most exciting composers.