Michael Murray's "Percipience" is a captivating journey through the intersection of poetry and music, presented in four distinct song cycles. Released on April 14, 2015, under the Navona label, this 48-minute album showcases Murray's compositional prowess and his ability to translate literary works into compelling musical narratives.
The album opens with "5 Blake Songs," a cycle that sets to music the poetic works of William Blake, performed by soprano Ann Moss and clarinetist John Ferraro. The cycle is followed by "4 Songs of Solomon," a tenor and orchestra collaboration that brings to life the timeless beauty of the Song of Solomon. The third cycle, "Neutral Tones," features baritone Christopher Thompson and viola, delving into the introspective poetry of Thomas Hardy. The album concludes with "3 Donne Songs," a trio of pieces inspired by the metaphysical poetry of John Donne.
Murray, a professor of music at Missouri State University, demonstrates a deep understanding of both poetry and music, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The performances are praised for their excellence, with each cycle offering a unique blend of vocal and instrumental textures. "Percipience" is not just an album but a testament to the enduring power of poetry and music to evoke emotion, tell stories, and connect with the listener on a profound level.
Tracks
5 Blake Songs: I. The SmileMichael Murray, Ann Moss, John Ferraro
5 Blake Songs: II. I Heard an Angel SingingMichael Murray, Ann Moss, John Ferraro
5 Blake Songs: III. The FlyMichael Murray, Ann Moss, John Ferraro
5 Blake Songs: IV. Holy ThursdayMichael Murray, Ann Moss, John Ferraro
5 Blake Songs: V. The Little VagabondMichael Murray, Ann Moss, John Ferraro
4 Songs of Solomon: I. Oh, You Are BeautifulMichael Murray, Andrew Childs, Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra, Petr Vronsky
4 Songs of Solomon: II. Beautiful as TirzahMichael Murray, Andrew Childs, Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra, Petr Vronsky
4 Songs of Solomon: III. Your Love Is BeautifulMichael Murray, Andrew Childs, Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra, Petr Vronsky
4 Songs of Solomon: IV. How Beautiful Are Your Sandaled FeetMichael Murray, Andrew Childs, Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra, Petr Vronsky
Neutral Tones: I. The Self-UnseeingMichael Murray, Chris Thompson, Peter Sulski
Neutral Tones: II. Looking AcrossMichael Murray, Chris Thompson, Peter Sulski
Neutral Tones: III. The RobinMichael Murray, Chris Thompson, Peter Sulski
Neutral Tones: IV. Neutral TonesMichael Murray, Chris Thompson, Peter Sulski
3 Donne Songs: I. The MessageMichael Murray, Ann Moss, Zoia Bologovsky, Amy Ripka, Justin Oullet, Dorothy Braker
3 Donne Songs: II. CommunityMichael Murray, Ann Moss, Zoia Bologovsky, Amy Ripka, Justin Oullet, Dorothy Braker
3 Donne Songs: III. The ProhibitionMichael Murray, Ann Moss, Zoia Bologovsky, Amy Ripka, Justin Oullet, Dorothy Braker
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