In C

[Guido]

There's quite e lot of versions of in C that have been recorded, and I was just wondering if anyone had any references. I realise each one will be unique and so personal preference will play a large role but which ones are generally considered the best? I've performed it twice but in much shorter than 'normal' durations (about 20 minutes each time), but would like to hear a recording.

[The new erato]

The HIP version of this is called In C flat.   

[prémont]

The HIP version of this is called In C flat.   

This was indeed a flat joke.

[Ephemerid]

I prefer Bang on a Can's recording-- lasts 45 minutes and is has a very light feel to it, thinner textures, not as "clangy" as the premiere recording.  Its a good combination of instruments, with traditional instruments like violin, cello, clarinet, but also biwa, electric guitar and other instruments giving it a more cosmopolitan flavour. 

[bhodges]

Seconding Ephemerid's opinion, I also like Bang on a Can's version.  It has a lot of energy, and yes, the instrumentation is very engaging somehow.  The recorded sound is excellent, too--very clear.

I also have the original, which is excellent, and just for your consideration, one from the Shanghai Film Orchestra, played on Chinese instruments (below).  It is a completely different sound, but if you are inclined toward these instruments, you might want to hear it. 

--Bruce

[bwv 1080]

Nothing beats the original Columbia recording IMO.  There is an energy there that later recordings have failed to capture.

[Morigan]

The HIP version of this is called In C flat.   

Why did I actually laugh at this? I'm a sad, sad person.

[Harry]

This was indeed a flat joke.

But good for a hearthy well meant laugh.....

[Harry]

Why did I actually laugh at this? I'm a sad, sad person.

No, no, no, not really, cheer up!

[gomro]

I prefer Bang on a Can's recording-- lasts 45 minutes and is has a very light feel to it, thinner textures, not as "clangy" as the premiere recording.  Its a good combination of instruments, with traditional instruments like violin, cello, clarinet, but also biwa, electric guitar and other instruments giving it a more cosmopolitan flavour. 

I'll second that suggestion, it's a great performance. I have the original Columbia recording as well, and never have cared much for it; it has a harsh quality that just doesn't work with this kind of music. Probably too many overdubs did some damage to the ultimate fidelity.  Your mileage may vary.

[FideLeo]

This was indeed a flat joke.

The joker has not heard enough HIP recordings, and I am not joking 

[The new erato]

The joker has not heard enough HIP recordings, and I am not joking 

Well, since they have a lower chamber tone, they are flat and would sound in C flat. So terry Riley would have to call it In C flat.

Whether one thinks it is a flat recording, or a recording of In C made in a flat, is another matter entrely.

I am a very HIP person.

[FideLeo]

Well, since they have a lower chamber tone, they are flat and would sound in C flat. So terry Riley would have to call it In C flat.

Whether one thinks it is a flat recording, or a recording of In C made in a flat, is another matter entrely.

I am a very HIP person.

Not all HIP recordings use the SAME lower chamber tone (consider the range of A=364 to A=464 for Monteverdi)... I trust you knew that as a very HIP person. 

[bhodges]

Just found out that the Kronos Quartet, plus others, will be doing In C at Carnegie Hall next season:

"The 45th anniversary of Terry Riley's revolutionary piece In C is celebrated at Carnegie Hall by the Kronos Quartet, which will invite more than two dozen favorite collaborators to join this one-time-only all-star ensemble to perform the seminal work for the first time ever in Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage."

--Bruce

[Guido]

Thanks for the advice guys. I think I'll get the Bang on a Can recording and maybe the original one too.