New York, June 23 — Percussionist Mika Stoltzman has released a new album, Crossing the Bar, which explores the expressive possibilities of the contemporary marimba. The album, released by Avie Records, features a rich and varied program that moves fluidly across styles and eras, ranging from Johann Sebastian Bach to John Zorn, with Claude Debussy and 21st century composer Miho Hazama in between.
The program brings together arrangements and contemporary works, including several world premieres, built around close collaborations with several musicians, most notably clarinetist Richard Stoltzman, Mika’s husband and regular collaborator. This collaboration is evident in the way the marimba and clarinet dialogue creates a more experimental atmosphere, particularly in Zorn’s Breathturn: Part 1.
One of the standout moments of the program is the arrangement of Debussy’s Rêverie, which stands as an enchanting moment of the album. The marimba’s warm, woody timbre lends itself beautifully to the work’s impressionistic contours, showcasing the instrument’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and moods. The album opens with the monumental Chaconne from Bach’s Partita No. 2 in an arrangement for marimba and strings, highlighting a highly lyrical and melodic conception of the instrument.
Stoltzman shapes each variation with great attention to dynamics, lending this transcription an unexpected expressive density. The approach favors the continuity of lines and the resonance of voices rather than percussive impact, creating a contemplative reading of the piece.
A notable aspect of the album is its ability to bring together different styles and eras, creating a sense of cohesion and flow. The transition from Bach to Zorn may feel somewhat abrupt, but it also showcases the marimba’s versatility and ability to adapt to different musical languages. The performance gains in dramatic intensity, particularly in the more fragmented and austere writing of Zorn’s Breathturn: Part 1.
The human side of this album is just as compelling as the music itself. Mika Stoltzman’s collaboration with her husband Richard Stoltzman is a testament to the power of creative partnership and the importance of human connection in the artistic process. For families and music lovers alike, this album offers a unique and enriching listening experience that showcases the beauty and expressiveness of the marimba.
What this means for patients of music therapy or simply for those who appreciate the healing power of music is a new and exciting opportunity to experience the marimba in a wide range of contexts and styles. The album’s focus on collaboration and creative partnership also highlights the importance of community and mutual support in the artistic process.
Behind the breakthrough of this album is a deep understanding of the marimba’s capabilities and limitations, as well as a willingness to push boundaries and explore new possibilities. The result is an album that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, speaking to the human experience in a way that transcends words and genres. As we look to the future, it will be exciting to see how Mika Stoltzman and her collaborators continue to innovate and push the boundaries of the marimba.
With Crossing the Bar, they have set a high standard for creativity and musical excellence, and it will be interesting to watch how they build on this success in the years to come.
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