Stephen Paulus’ Concertante: Vibrant Instrumental Conversations

The concertante is the most democratic of musical forms. Blending symphony and concerto, it opens the door to a vibrant, free-flowing musical conversation among solo instrumental voices and groups of instruments. The distinct persona of each instrument comes sharply into focus. Exhibiting brilliance and virtuosity, every voice gets its moment in the spotlight.* American composer Stephen Paulus (1949-2014) embraced all of this in his simply titled Concertante, written in 1989. Exuberant, playful, and …

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Remembering Composer Stephen Paulus

American composer Stephen Paulus passed away yesterday due to complications from a significant stroke he suffered last year. He was 65 years old. Paulus leaves behind a wide range of works, including three violin concertos. William Preucil recorded the first concerto with conductor Yoel Levi and the Atlanta Symphony in the early 1990s. That recording also features the thrilling, eleven minute adventure for orchestra, Concertante, written in 1989 (find on iTunes). In addition …

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