Los Angeles, Calif., November 12, 2007- Once again, the oldest tale in
the English language is told in the newly released cd "Beowulf". This
time in a style familiar to the modern ear, and highly entertaining.
The musical tale is based on the book "Beowulf The Warrior",
(Bethlehem Books) by the English author, and master wordsmith Ian
Serraillier, with music by Sam Sorensen.
In this memorable adventure, Beowulf rescues King Hrothgar and the
Danes from the ravages of monstrous horrors in a manner of compelling
grandeur. The listener becomes acquainted with Beowulf's strength,
heroism and noble heart, as Serrallier reweaves the original tale into
modern narrative verse, brandishing all the energy and vividness of
the original. From over the grey Baltic, the wintry "whale-road", to
the dark and dripping caves of the misty moor, Sorensen's powerful
narration and inspired original score for orchestra and choir enhance
the story each step of the way.
Here is a wonderful means to visit a treasure from 1200 years ago, and
become enthralled. It is a work of art in itself, and a doorway for
young and old to further experiences with the epic.
http://www.beowulf2008.com/
http://www.digstation.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?albumID=ALB000012900
Mark Gordon, host of the KXLU - Los Angeles, radio program, Stage and
Screen, commented on his show recently, "It's clear Serralier has one
of the most remarkable versions of the story Beowulf. Complex in
nature, yet easy to understand, it engages the listener from start to
finish. The audio quality on this recording is remarkable. Sorensen's
large orchestral score composed of vivid instrumental color and
memorable melodies, reminds one at times of Shostakovich or perhaps in
places Bartok, or Prokofiev. His narration is world class, similar to
that of a Spartan King, as he tells the ancient tale of a monster, in
a way that comes from a place of a noble spirit, rather than that of
sheer horror. It is certainly a fun and masterful work . . ."
The Times (London) in a literary supplement wrote: "To venture on the
story of Beowulf in verse, whether for children or adults, is a deed
with its own kind of heroism . . . There must be a hundred ways of
failing: Mr. Serralier has hit on one of the ways to succeed."
For More Information Contact:
Sam Sorensen - composer
cell: 310-480-4974 / samsorensen@cox.net
http://www.samsorensen.com/
The audio cd Beowulf is now available for digital download at
Digstation.com - and the physical cd will be available 11/16/2007 at
CDbaby.com - It will also be available at Amazon.com, and retail
stores beginning November 22nd.
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