CD version. Originally released as a 4LP set back in the early days of Mode Records, the first two discs of this 3CD set document the two live performances of John Cage's 1961 orchestral work Atlas Eclipticalis played simultaneously with 1957's Winter Music (in a version for three pianos) recorded at Seattle's Cornish Institute on December 11th 1983. This extraordinary 3-CD collection presents two complete performances of Atlas Eclipticalis performed simultaneously with Winter Music, captured during Cage's celebrated return to the institution where his revolutionary musical journey began. The release marks the first CD appearance of these legendary concerts, originally issued as a 4-LP set on Mode in 1986. The Cornish Institute held profound significance for Cage, serving as the crucible for many of his musical discoveries and innovations during his tenure there in the 1930s, when he taught and performed as accompanist for dance pieces.

The collection offers an unprecedented opportunity to witness Cage interpreting his own compositions. Two complete 80-minute performances from December 11, 1983, showcase the composer conducting The New Performance Group through these intricate works. Atlas Eclipticalis (1961), derived from astronomical star charts, unfolds alongside Winter Music (1957), creating a sonic constellation of chance-determined beauty. The performances have been newly remastered from original analog tapes using cutting-edge 96khz/24-bit technology, revealing previously unheard details in these historic recordings.

The third disc presents a remarkable bonus: the first-ever recording of all 86 instrumental parts of Atlas Eclipticalis, captured under Cage's direct supervision at the "John Cage at Wesleyan Festival" in 1988. This all-star ensemble included luminaries such as the Arditti Quartet, Alvin Lucier, Christian Wolff, and Neely Bruce. Additionally, Winter Music appears here in a unique arrangement for 20 pianos, masterfully directed by acclaimed Cage interpreter Stephen Drury with The Callithumpian Consort. The original liner notes by Cage himself and Matthew Kocmieroski are supplemented with new scholarly essays. Don Gillespie, Cage's long-time colleague and publisher, provides fresh insights into Atlas Eclipticalis, while Stephen Drury offers expert commentary on Winter Music.

Atlas Eclipticalis (1961) for chamber ensemble, played simultaneously with Winter Music (1957) for three pianos: two live performances, Cornish Institute, Seattle, 11 December 1983
Atlas Eclipticalis (1961) for orchestra, all 86 instrumental parts, live at the John Cage at Wesleyan Festival, 26 February 1988
Winter Music (1957) for 20 pianos, directed by Stephen Drury

John Cage, conductor, with The New Performance Group (1983)
Stephen Drury and The Callithumpian Consort (Winter Music for 20 pianos)