In this truly collaborative effort, the talents of Sophia Agranovich (classical piano) and Rupam Sarmah (composer) combine to bring us Peace and Joy – a vibrant reimagining of Mendelssohn and Mozart through the lens of world music. This single was recorded as a fundraiser for One Little Finger, an organization that strives to improve the lives of the poor and underprivileged worldwide. It is also featured on the organization’s ARISE TOGETHER children’s album.
Peace and Joy is a performance by a thoroughly talented ensemble and is a playful mix of Eastern and Western instrumentation. Strings, flute, and saxophone weave in and out of Sophia’s opening piano part, and we also hear the voice of Tamra Garrett, whose vocals star throughout. A brief passage of sitar-harp interplay ensues before the iconic sound of Mozart’s Alla Turca takes center stage. Banjo joins in, harmonizing the main theme with Agranovich’s piano and Garrett’s vocals. It’s a delightful take on a classic piece; Sarmah’s arrangement carries all the energy of the original but the rich instrumentation, and soaring vocal part, provide an exotic twist. The track smoothly segues into some Mendelhsson melodies, allowing Agranovich’s piano skills to shine. A beautifully composed outro sees the sitar play variations on the Alla Turca theme and Garrett’s vocal brings us to a superb climax.
It is heart-warming to see so many gifted musicians join together and produce music for such an important cause; Peace and Joy is a testament to the power of music as a force for good. The individual performances are stellar, and hats must go off to Sarmah and Agranovich for their imaginative weaving of sounds both familiar and new.
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BELOW: Listen to Peace and Joy (Mendelssohn/Mozart World) and connect with her website and social media platforms. Please support Sophia Agranovich by visiting her online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing her music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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