MICHAEL NYMAN - "NYMAN AT 60"  £9.99 each.		Back to SPIN
On 23rd March 2004, the legendary classical composer Michael Nyman turns 60. To celebrate the occasion, Nyman will be launching a 'Nyman at 60' concert at Hackney Empire on 22nd March. Nyman intends to extend this event throughout the year, performing similar concerts in various international territories.
DECAY MUSIC This was the first ever commercially released work by Nyman and originally intended for a Peter Greenaway film back in 1976 (but never used). It has only been available on vinyl in the past, so this will be the first time it is released on CD.  Of particular note, is the fact that it was originally released on the Obscure label which was part of the Portobello Road experimental music scene (other's include Gavin Bryars, Michael Brook etc.,) of the 70's and is credited as the first minimalist piece for Greenaway's 1-100. It was produced by Brian Eno and has been said to have possibly been the model for Eno's 'Music for Airports'. Eno's involvement with Nyman opened new doors for him into the Experimental Music scene.	PETER GREENAWAY SOUNDTRACKS: 'The Draughtsman's Contract' 'A Zed And Two Noughts' 'Drowning By Numbers' 'The Cook, The Thief, His Wife And Her Lover' Nyman's compositions for the above four Greenaway films (particularly 'The Cook, The Thief') brought recognition to both Director and Composer. Much of the music from these films is used in TV commercials, idents and background music even today.  Perhaps no other Director was able to express with such vigour, the system of cross-reference between music and themes from the films.	THE PIANO The multi-million selling The Piano soundtrack used Nyman's music in perhaps the most effective way. Holly Hunter's role as the mute Ada who's piano-playing becomes the focus and expression for her turbulent emotions, brought critical acclaim for the actress as well as the female director Jane Campion. (It was composed specifically for Holly Hunter to play the pieces)