NEW RECORDINGS

Clarinetist Seunghee Lee's Newest Album, "Intermezzo"

August 23, 2024

2 MIN READ

The release features the work of Italian composer Michele Mangani, accompanied by pianist Steven Beck and the Manhattan Chamber Players

Musica Solis has released recording artist, producer, and clarinetist Seunghee Lee's newest album, Intermezzo. Following Lee's GRAMMY^® nominated release ASPIRE, the new project features the works of Italian composer Michele Mangani.

Seunghee Lee is joined by pianist Steven Beck and the Manhattan Chamber Players, in a program of Mangani’s compositions for clarinet, and all but one piece is a world premiere recording. Two of the works on the recording, the title track “Intermezzo” and “Dancing Doll,” were dedicated to Lee shortly after she reached out to Mangani after hearing his “Executive” online around 2012.

Lee first discovered the work of Michele Mangani over a decade ago and credits his music for having rejuvenated her love of the clarinet.

“One of those moments for me was when I heard this piece called ‘Executive’ written by Michele Mangani," Lee said. "There was a time when I quit music altogether. I lost enthusiasm for playing the clarinet, feeling discouraged and unmotivated…But then, when I heard Michele Mangani’s beautiful music on the internet one day, I was immediately captivated! His music summarized my life’s journey like a movie and sparked a fresh perspective and creative energy for the instrument. I got a buzz of motivation. I can’t wait to share more Mangani music on this new album.”

In addition to Mangani’s original works, the album highlights his arrangement of Astor Piazzolla’s “Tango Étude No. 3,” originally written for the flute. Lee commissioned the new arrangement for the clarinet and chamber ensemble.

In discussing her inspiration for this album, Lee says, “I dedicate this album to all listeners who have experienced a period of pause in their career. There should be no shame in taking a break for self-care or to raise a family. We can embrace this interlude as an opportunity for personal growth and come back stronger to get things done.”