Trio No.2 for Flute, Cello, and Piano Op.87 (2004) c.22'00"

in one movement

Commissioned by the University of Kansas

First Performed on August 14, 2004 at the National Flute Association Convention in Nashville, Tennessee by David Fedele, flute; Matt Herren, cello and Robert Koenig, piano

ABOUT

My Second Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano Op. 77 was commissioned by the University of Kansas, and premiered by the Fedele Trio on August 14th, 2004 at the National Flute Association Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.

The Trio is in one movement and is enormously challenging, both technically and ensemble-wise  for the three instruments. It presents its material in a wealth of harmonic guises: tonal, atonal, modal, and octatonic.  The opening, marked “Allegro con pazzia” (with madness) introduces the three instruments in often opposing compound meters. Subsequent sections of the work are marked “Cortege,” “con conforto nero” (with black depression) and “placido” (still or calm) before returning to the opening material.

RECORDINGS

REVIEWS

"The Liebermann Trio, which was commissioned and premiered by this ensemble, was the centerpiece of the program. Tonal and full of wonderfully melodic writing, the piece is also quite moody and slightly theatrical. It moves quickly, yet convincingly, from quiet, introspective sections to absolutely glowing passages.”
— Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

“Liebermann’s op.87 is a vibrant, colorful piece that is both musically and dramatically compelling…Throughout the Trio, Liebermann celebrates the unique sonic palette embodied by the combination of flute, cello, and piano…the Liebermann Trio is a decidedly ensemble affair, and one that explores a remarkable and satisfying range of instrumental colors and moods.”
— Fanfare