Description

Gates of Dream features a selection of solo and chamber works for the flute family by the Romanian composer Doina Rotaru as performed by Serbian flutist Iva Ugrčić.

Rotaru works with archetypes and symbols that she carefully weaves into liquid-like heterophonies, blending archaic Romanian influences with contemporary techniques and structures. With the flute as her chisel, she sculpts inventive sonorities while drawing from the past evoking a melancholic atmosphere and feeling of a painful beauty.

Award-winning flutist Iva Ugrčić (pronounced Ooo-gr-cheech) is one of the most exciting and adventurous flutists in the international pantheon. Winner of The American Prize in Woodwind Performance 2023, named BRAVA Magazine’s 2022 “Woman to Watch” and “Musician of the Year for 2018” by The Well-Tempered Ear, Ugrčić is known for her technical brilliance, expressive musicianship, and remarkable versatility. She has garnered international acclaim for her performances, both as a soloist and a collaborator in chamber and orchestral settings in venues across the world.

Reviews

“a captivating journey through haunting melodies and compelling narratives. Ugrcic’s prowess as a flutist shines through as she navigates Rotaru’s intricate compositions with finesse and depth….Her performances are mesmerizing…Gates of Dream is a must-listen.”

—Viviana Guzman, The Flute View

“This album is very highly recommended to those who love good modern music. Rotaru is a composer who doesn’t try to do too much in her works, yet who paradoxically accomplishes a great deal through her deft and creative use of her musical materials. She is a sculptor in sound whose music will elevate you to an entirely new plane of existence.”

— Lynn René Bayley, The Art Music Lounge, February 29, 2024