Dive into the enchanting world of Bright Sheng's "Song of Majnun," a captivating exploration of love, loss, and longing through the lens of classical music. This 1997 release, originally issued by Delos, is a masterful composition that weaves together intricate melodies and profound lyrics, bringing to life the timeless tale of Majnun and Layla.
Composed by Bright Sheng, this album is a testament to his unique artistic vision and his ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements. The libretto, crafted by Andrew Porter, adds depth and richness to the narrative, making each scene a vivid and immersive experience. The album features a diverse cast of characters, each bringing their own voice and perspective to the story, from the playful interactions of the Boys and Girls in the pinewood to the poignant dialogues between Majnun and his father.
"Song of Majnun" is divided into eight scenes, each exploring different facets of the central love story. The album begins with the whimsical "Tiger in the pinewood" and culminates in the mournful "Layla, we mourn you," providing a full spectrum of human emotions. The interlude, "Majnun's Dream," offers a moment of introspection and reflection, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.
With a duration of approximately 73 minutes, this album is a rich and rewarding listen from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Bright Sheng's "Song of Majnun" promises a deeply engaging and thought-provoking experience. The album's detailed storytelling and exquisite musical composition make it a standout work in the classical genre.
Tracks
The Song of Majnun, Scene 1: Tiger in the pinewood, run through the pinewood (Boys, Girls, Majnun, Layla, Layla's Mother and Father)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun, Scene 2: Here! What? Have you heard, have you heard? (First Gossip, Second Gossip, Majnun)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun, Scene 3: Light of my soul, where Are you? (Ensemble, Layla)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun, Scene 4: Old man, who Are you? (Majnun, Majnun's Father)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun, Scene 5: Has he heard, has he heard? (First Gossip, Second Gossip, Ensemble, Layla's Mother and Father, IBN Salam)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun, Scene 6: This letter comes from a grieving woman to a man of grief (Layla, Majnun)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun, Scene 7: Layla, my child, come inside (Layla's Mother, Layla)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun: Interlude. Majnun's DreamBright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
The Song of Majnun, Scene 8: Layla, we mourn you (Ensemble, IBN Salam, Layla Mother and Father, First Gossip, Second Gossip, Majnun)Bright Sheng, Raymond Very, Ana Maria Martinez, Jill Grove, Grant Youngblood, Mary Petro, Jonita Lattimore, Patrick Blackwell, Michael Chioldi, Houston Grand Opera Chorus, Houston Grand Opera Orchestra, Ward Holmquist
Composer Bright Sheng and Librettist Andrew Porter in Coversation with Tom Sudholt, host of Saturday Afternoon at the OperaBright Sheng, Andrew J. Porter
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