Expert: Pat G - 6/10/2009

Question
I was wondering if you could help me identify 3 pieces of music. I posted them on my website. http://www.keylay.com
Thank you.

Answer
Hi, kyle,

LOL I guess I have developed somewhat of a reputation as an expert on identifying classical music, and the reputation is undeserved, in my opinion. But I listened to all three. I would say they are all twentieth century pieces (or early 21st century). They're all lovely. But I don't pay as much attention to some of the music from the twentieth century I do to other music in the genre, not to mention that there has been a proliferation of composers who are largely unknown at this point.

The first is a wind quintet. By process of elimination, you may be able to find the composer. Try this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_quintet Here is a recording that has music in much the same style, though not this particular piece: http://www.amazon.com/20th-Century-Quintets-Michael-Harris/dp/B00004NK2C Here is another album that has similar music: http://www.amazon.com/Imani-Winds-quintet-Monica-Ellis/dp/B000CC4W1E/ref=pd_sim_... The composer is Mario Lavista, but a search on Amazon and on YouTube didn't yield any useful information.

The second is by John Adams or Philip Glass. It is definitely in minimalist style, and though there are several composers who have composed in this style, I'm leaning toward one of those two, particularly Philip Glass.

The third, I have no clue. If you told me where you got the pieces, it might help.

Unfortunately, I don't have the time to do some real sleuthing. So that will have to be it for now.

Beautiful web site, by the way.

I realize this isn't much help, but at least maybe it will point you in the right direction with respect to the second piece. Good luck learning what they are! Let me know if you do figure it out!