Richard Rodney Bennett

Alba

Alba is one of Bennett's serialism-tinged works that also touches on medieval rhythmic modes. He based the work on the Tema Seriale from Cantata Academica by Benjamin Britten, to whom Alba is dedicated. It is a demanding andrewarding piece for performer and listener. Composer, performer and arranger Richard Rodney Bennett was internationally respected for his serious music and many award-winning film scores (Murder on the Orient Express, Nicholas andAlexandra) as well as his works for children and his religious pieces. In addition, this markedly versatile musician frequently performed as a jazz pianist. On his move to the United States, the two sponsors for his greencard (work permit) were Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim.