Ludus Tonalis / Suite 1922

Paul Hindemith's Ludus Tonalis has been called a quot;20th-century composer's reappraisal of Bach's Well-Tempered Clavier.quot; However, it's twelve fugues and their interludes are notable equally for their emotion as for their (indisputable) logic. The work represents a musical statement of Hindemith's theories, yet in it we encounter one of the most adventurous works for solo piano of the twentieth century. The five movements of the Suite '1922' are made up of stylized versions of American popular dance themes, each featuring Hindemith's imaginative use of traditional harmony and Satie-like instructions to the performer: quot;Regard the piano here as an interesting percussion instrument.quot; Pianist John McCabe performs both works with his customary mix of precision and keen understanding of the contemporary mindset.