Vingt regards sur l'enfant-Jesus Olivier Messiaen (1908-92)
[UP digital exclusive - for download only]

Vingt regards sur l'enfant-Jesus is one of the most outstanding piano cycles ever composed: twenty movements meditate on the mystery of the baby Jesus and the wonders of the universe, and convey Messiaen's profound and passionate belief. Composed during the occupation of Paris in 1944, it combines the rigour of mathematics with spectacular, joyful virtuosity, in the scale and scope of a Gothic cathedral. Tender and spiritual harmonies contrast with the rhythmic excitement of gamelan and raga patterns.

Joanna MacGregor's performances of Messiaen's epic cycle have become admired the world over, and for the first time her 1995 recording becomes available as a digital download, to celebrate Messiaen's centenary year.

The work, says Joanna MacGregor, "is massive, almost unruly in its overflow of energy and colour, teeming with gorgeous sonorities and intellectually rigorous ideas. Each movement is quite literally a meditation on a theological aspect of his Roman Catholic beliefs, yet the contemplations are meticulously and dramatically paced: they can be serene, fierce, languid, rigidly doctrinal or even humorous."

'Joanna MacGregor's understanding of the music's ebb and flow is exemplary, beautifully rendered in a performance where each chord is given a different weight and direction.' (BBC Music Magazine)

'A tremendous feat... a triumphant account bristling with visionary ecstasy and earthy humanity... towering, uplifting.' (Venue)



Rhapsody in Blue (Jazz Band Version) - George Gershwin (1898-1937)
[UP digital exclusive - for download only]

George Gershwin was one of the most gifted and mercurial composers of the 20th century, a musician who single-handedly invented 'crossover' music,. From the storming success of Rhapsody in Blue to the brilliant examination of gospel and blues in Porgy and Bess, Gershwin effortlessly, and lightly, used his startling talents to convey a certain kind of wit and immediacy and still delights and surprises. Joanna MacGregor plays the original, raucous Jazz Band version with the LSO.

'Joanna MacGregor's interpretation is scintillating, with many original and witty touches of pacing...this is a winning package.' (Gramophone Magazine)

'MacGregor's verve, energy and astounding technique are always at the service of the music and never vice versa.' (The Times)