Rodin Commission Project | The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage

The Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA) commissioned two new works by French composers Tristan Murail and Philippe Hurel, groundbreakers in the field of spectral music, a modern compositional practice inspired by the scientific analysis of sound waves. Inspired by the masterworks of sculptor Auguste Rodin, the commissions were part of a series of contemporary classical programs in the newly renovated Rodin Museum—an effort to bring fresh perspectives and attention to the finest public collection of Rodin's work outside Paris. Performed by the New York-based Argento Chamber Ensemble, the compositions were featured in a preview concert at the PMA's weekly Art After 5 series, then again in performances over two successive weekends in July 2012—one devoted to Murail's oeuvre and one to Hurel's—as well as in educational activities with local composers and music schools.

Listen to audio samples from this project:

Recording of the world premiere of Tristan Murail's "The Bronze Age," July 22, 2012. Featured artists: Michel Galante, conductor; Argento Chamber Ensemble; Jill Sokol, flute; Vasko Dukovski, clarinet; Mike Lormand, trombone; Steven Gosling, piano; Clara Lyon, violin; Caitlin Sullivan, cello. Commissioned by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and supported by a 2011 grant from The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage.
Recording of the world premiere of Philippe Hurel's "Phasis" (2007/2012), for clarinet and large ensemble, July 28, 2012. Featured artists: Michel Galante, conductor; Argento Chamber Ensemble; Carol McGonnell, solo clarinet; Nathalie Joachim, flute; Arthur Sato, oboe; Vasko Dukovski, clarinet; Gina Valvano (aka Gina Cuffari), bassoon; Sycil Matthai, trumpet; Mike Lormand, trombone; Matt Ward, percussion; Steven Gosling, piano; Cyrus Beroukhim, violin 1; Clara Lyon, violin 2; Stephanie Griffin, viola; Michael Haas, cello; Doug Balliet, bass. Commissioned by the Philadelphia Museum of Art and supported by a 2011 grant from The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage.