In the heart of a bustling Monday, GBH's All Things Considered series, "Turntable," takes listeners on an auditory voyage by exploring the playlists of esteemed music aficionados. Brian McCreath, a key figure in GBH Music and host of CRB’s Boston Symphony Orchestra broadcasts, joined Arun Rath to share his current musical selections. This segment not only highlights Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G but also ventures into contemporary compositions by Gabriela Ortiz and timeless works by Bach.

Exploring the Melodic Universe with Ravel, Ortiz, and Bach

Amidst the vibrant autumnal hues of New England, Brian McCreath introduced Seong-Jin Cho, a pianist whose prowess has captivated audiences worldwide. His rendition of Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G, recorded live last year at Boston Symphony concerts, showcases both technical brilliance and emotive depth. The piece resonates with Ravel’s jazz-inspired melodies, celebrating the composer's 150th birth anniversary while anticipating Seong-Jin Cho's upcoming performance at Tanglewood this summer.

Shifting gears, McCreath presented Gabriela Ortiz's work, which recently triumphed at the Grammy Awards. Her composition, Revolución Diamantina, vividly portrays the Glitter March in Mexico, addressing themes of social justice and women's rights. The Los Angeles Philharmonic, under Gustavo Dudamel’s baton, brought this powerful piece to life, blending indigenous Mexican influences with orchestral grandeur. As director of Tanglewood’s Festival of Contemporary Music, Ortiz promises an enriching experience for attendees in July.

Concluding the session, McCreath celebrated the 340th anniversary of Bach's birth with Vox Luminis, a Belgian ensemble renowned for its exquisite choral performances. Their rendition of Bach's Ascension Oratorio exemplifies the joyous spirit central to Bach’s cantatas, each crafted for specific liturgical dates. The ensemble will grace the Boston Early Music Festival in June, offering a glimpse into Baroque masterpieces imbued with profound spiritual resonance.

From the sparkling notes of Ravel to the socially conscious harmonies of Ortiz and the celestial beauty of Bach, this episode of "Turntable" underscores the universal language of music. It reminds us that whether classical or contemporary, music transcends boundaries, connecting humanity through shared emotions and experiences. As we anticipate future performances at venues like Tanglewood and the Boston Early Music Festival, the power of music to inspire and unite remains ever evident.