Horațiu Rădulescu (1942-2008) was an innovative Romanian-French composer who left a profound mark on contemporary classical music with his exploratory approach and unique sound world. A pioneer of the spectral music movement, which emphasizes the exploration of the overtone series and sonorities derived from it, Rădulescu developed a distinctive style that sought to delve into the inner life of sound. His fascination with sound's subtleties led him to invent a technique he called "sound plasma," a method that allowed him to treat pitches as living entities with evolving overtone structures.

Born in Bucharest and later settling in France, Rădulescu studied at the conservatories in Bucharest and Vienna, immersing himself in both Eastern European and Western avant-garde traditions. His extensive oeuvre spans solo, chamber, and orchestral works, often requiring musicians to employ unconventional playing techniques to achieve his groundbreaking sonic effects. Rădulescu has been a compelling figure for those with an interest in the metaphysical and philosophical dimensions of music, as seen in compositions such as the evocative piano concertos and the introspective string quartets. His use of microtonality, scordatura (unconventional tunings for string instruments), and innovative notation systems continue to inspire and challenge performers and composers alike. Rădulescu's work paved the way for future explorations in sound, leaving a legacy of adventurous and transcendent music that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the art form.

Genres

Avant-garde

Contemporary Classical

Romanian Contemporary Classical

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Latest Release

Horațiu Rădulescu: Piano Sonatas No. 1, No. 2 and No. 4

Horaţiu Rădulescu•

Roger Woodward

Album - 9 Tracks - Released April 10, 2023