Dive into the rich musical tapestry of William Grant Still, a pioneering American composer, with the album "Oregon Festival of American Music Presents William Grant Still." Released on November 1, 2013, under Seranya Records, this 57-minute collection showcases Still's versatility and innovation across a variety of styles and forms.
The album opens with the "Lyric Quartet," a three-movement work that explores different moods and characters, from the sentimental to the jovial. It then transitions into "Danzas de Panama," a vibrant suite inspired by the folk dances of Panama, each movement capturing the unique rhythm and spirit of its namesake dance.
The "Prince and the Mermaid Suite" is a highlight of the album, offering a whimsical and enchanting journey through four distinct movements. This suite is followed by "Summerland," a serene and evocative piece for string quartet.
The album also features selections from "Littler Folk Suites," a collection of charming and accessible pieces that draw from various cultural traditions. These are complemented by solo works such as "Pastorela," a pastoral piece, and "Blues," a soulful exploration of the blues genre. The album concludes with "Quit Dat Fool'nish," a lively duet for violin and piano.
William Grant Still, known as the "Dean of African American Composers," brings his unique perspective and mastery of composition to each piece, making this album a captivating exploration of his musical legacy. Whether you're a fan of classical music, folk-inspired pieces, or innovative compositions, this album offers a rewarding listening experience.
Tracks
Lyric Quartet: I. The Sentimental OneWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Lyric Quartet: II. The Quiet OneWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Lyric Quartet: III. The Jovial OneWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Danzas de Panama: I. TamboritoWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Danzas de Panama: II. MejoranaWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Danzas de Panama: III. PuntoWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Danzas de Panama: IV. Cumbia y CongoWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Prince and the Mermaid Suite: I. Song of the SeaWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Prince and the Mermaid Suite: II. WaltzWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Prince and the Mermaid Suite: III. MinuetWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Prince and the Mermaid Suite: IV. ScherzoWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Summerland (For String Quartet)William Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Selections from Littler Folk Suites: I. Los IndiosWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Selections from Littler Folk Suites: II. Wade in the WaterWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Selections from Littler Folk Suites: III. SalangadouWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
Selections from Littler Folk Suites: IV. Aurore Pradere and Tant Sirop est DouxWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Kathryn Lucktenberg, Leslie Straka, Steve Pologe
PastorelaWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Victor Steinhardt
BluesWilliam Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Victor Steinhardt
Quit Dat Fool'nish (For Violin and Piano)William Grant Still, Fritz Gearhart, Victor Steinhardt
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