Dive into the rich tapestry of American choral music with Polyphony's "American Polyphony: Barber, Copland, Bernstein, R. Thompson." Released in 2015 under the Hyperion label, this album is a captivating exploration of some of the most significant works in the American choral canon, spanning a total of 74 minutes.
The album opens with Randall Thompson's serene "Alleluia" and closes with his equally understated "Fare Well," framing a program that includes Leonard Bernstein's concise yet powerful "Missa brevis." Aaron Copland's motets are also featured, showcasing his distinctive style and deep spiritual resonance. The album is not complete without Samuel Barber's iconic "Agnus Dei," a vocal adaptation of his renowned "Adagio for Strings."
Polyphony, conducted by Stephen Layton, delivers a performance of exceptional clarity and depth, bringing out the nuances and subtleties of each composition. The ensemble's precise harmonies and expressive phrasing make this album a standout in the choral genre. Whether you're a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to some of the most beloved and enduring works by these iconic American composers.
Tracks
AlleluiaRandall Thompson, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Agnus Dei, Op. 11/2 (Vocal Version of Adagio for Strings)Samuel Barber, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
Reincarnations, Op. 16: I. Mary HynesSamuel Barber, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
Reincarnations, Op. 16: II. Anthony O'DalySamuel Barber, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Reincarnations, Op. 16: III. The Coolin'Samuel Barber, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
Missa brevis: I. KyrieLeonard Bernstein, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Missa brevis: II. GloriaLeonard Bernstein, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Missa brevis: III. SanctusLeonard Bernstein, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
Missa brevis: IV. BenedictusLeonard Bernstein, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
Missa brevis: V. Agnus DeiLeonard Bernstein, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
Missa brevis: VI. Dona nobis pacemLeonard Bernstein, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
4 Motets: I. Help Us, O LordAaron Copland, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
4 Motets: II. Thou, O Jehovah, Abideth ForeverAaron Copland, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
4 Motets: III. Have mercy on Us, O My LordAaron Copland, Polyphony, Stephen Layton
4 Motets: IV. Sing Ye Praises to Our KingAaron Copland, Stephen Layton, Polyphony
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