Alan Hovhaness, born on March 8, 1911, in Somerville, Massachusetts, was a prolific American composer of Armenian and Scottish descent who crafted a distinctive musical style that fused diverse cultural influences. Hovhaness was a true original, known for his extensive output that includes over 500 works, ranging from orchestral and chamber music to operas and choral pieces. His music reflects a profound spirituality and a unique blending of Western and Eastern musical traditions, inspired in part by his own Armenian heritage and a deep fascination with music from across Asia, including India and Japan.

Throughout his career, Hovhaness strived to create music that promoted peace and transcendent beauty, often turning away from the atonality and dissonance that characterized much of the contemporary classical music of his time. His Symphony No. 2, "Mysterious Mountain," is one of his most enduring works, celebrated for its ethereal and contemplative qualities. Other significant compositions include his "Exile Symphony" (Symphony No. 1), "Mount St. Helen" (Symphony No. 50), and "And God Created Great Whales," in which he incorporated taped whale songs into the orchestral texture. Hovhaness's music remains a testament to his belief in the power of music as a universal language, and his legacy endures through the continuing performances and recordings of his extensive catalogue. He passed away on June 21, 2000, but his work continues to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.

Genres

American Modern Classical

Contemporary Classical

Early Modern Classical

Latest Release

The Tempestuous Harpsichord

Alan Hovhaness•

Sara Stowe

Album - 16 Tracks - Released February 27, 2024