Dayton / Yang Guo / Kwan - Notes to Loved Ones [CD]

Up-and-coming composer Peter Dayton makes his Navona Records debut with the release of Notes to Loved Ones, an album of works for piano and strings. Dayton's style of composition is heavily influenced by people with whom he is fascinated and their works of art. These influences are the driving forces behind Notes to Loved Ones. Fantasy for viola and piano, is contemplative and collected. The composer, himself, likens it's thematic content with "the continuity of a changing dream." The string quartet Morceaux des Noces, is reflective of the Americana in early 20th century composition. Sonata "Los Dedicatorias," for violin and piano is tentative, with the juxtaposition of the highest part of violin's range against the warm, middle tones of the piano. Messiaen lovers will enjoy Variations for string quartet, which is reminiscent of Quatuor pour la fin du temp and the ethereal qualities within it. About the rhapsodic Sonata for cello and piano Dayton reflects: "I drew upon [Shostakovich's] emotional geography of cattiness and sarcasm as well as tragedy and pensive calm."