Crumb, George
Makrokosmos, Volume I
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

Beautiful 1974 original complete with custom printed inner sleeve. TAS Superdisc title. Makrokosmos Vol. 1 is a composition for amplified piano by American composer George Crumb. It was written in 1972 and first performed by the pianist David Burge in the same year. The piece is part of a four-volume set of compositions called "Makrokosmos," which was inspired by the Greek concept of the cosmos and the microcosm-macrocosm relationship.

The piece is written for two amplified pianos and requires the performer to use various extended techniques, such as strumming, plucking, and muting the strings inside the piano. The performer is also required to use various objects, such as mallets, glass tumblers, and metal rods, to create unique and unconventional sounds.

Each movement of the piece is named after a different zodiac sign and is meant to represent the qualities and characteristics associated with that sign. For example, the first movement, "Primeval Sounds (Genesis I)," is meant to represent the creation of the universe and features primitive, percussive sounds. The fourth movement, "Celestial Mechanics (Makrokosmos III)," is meant to represent the movement of the planets and features rapid, repetitive patterns.

Makrokosmos Vol. 1 has been praised for its innovative use of extended techniques and unconventional soundscapes. It has also been noted for its strong connection to the natural world and its use of astrology as a thematic device. The piece has become a staple of contemporary classical music repertoire and has been performed and recorded by numerous pianists around the world.