Treny (“Laments”) is a 73-minute composition that encompasses two solo cello movements, a movement for two cellos, plus a final movement where a soprano soloist joins the cellists. Weld these forces to composer Virko Baley’s introspective, darkly lyrical sound world, and the end results are remarkably sustained and subtle for a work of such duration and scope. It may take several hearings to grasp Baley’s carefully deployed thematic interrelationships and transformations, but the sheer incandescence and registral resourcefulness of his cello writing are omnipresent. I’m particularly struck by the second movement’s eighth section, where the two cellos alternate solo phrases, then join together for fragile dissonant chords that shimmer like woven glass. Soprano Olga Pasichnyk makes a gentle entrance with a wordless, unaccompanied lament that eases its way into Jan Kochanowski’s haunting Polish texts, cradled by the cellists’ delicate, interweaving accompanying lines. Once you allow your ears to flow with Baley’s leisurely discourse, new details will emerge upon each rehearing, thanks, in part, to this group of sensitive and fiercely dedicated performers, and TNC’s superb, naturally balanced sonics. A thoughtful and comprehensively analytical discussion of the work by John Schaefer graces the program booklet. Take your time with this release, and let the music grow on you, or, better still, grow into the music. The rewards are worth your investment. [3/1/2003]
