Dive into the world of neoclassical opera with Virgil Thomson's "The Mother of Us All," a captivating work that stands as a testament to the composer's unique vision and collaboration with the renowned Gertrude Stein. This two-act opera, originally composed in 1947, finally received the recording it deserved in 2014, courtesy of Albany Records.
"The Mother of Us All" is a profound exploration of themes that resonate deeply with the human experience, all wrapped in a rich tapestry of neoclassical music. The opera is divided into two acts, each containing several scenes that build a narrative of introspection and societal reflection. The suite that follows the opera offers a condensed yet powerful experience, highlighting key moments with pieces like "Prelude," "Cold Weather," and "A Political Meeting."
The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Addison Hamilton, Alexander Frankel, Amelia Berry, and Cameron Johnson, each bringing their unique talents to the stage. Under the baton of Steven Osgood, the Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.
With a duration of 1 hour and 51 minutes, this album is a substantial journey through the mind of Virgil Thomson, offering a deep dive into his musical prowess and Stein's poetic libretto. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "The Mother of Us All" promises an enriching experience that will leave you pondering its themes long after the final notes fade away.
Tracks
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene I: "Yes, I was"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene II: "Pity the poor persecutor"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene III: "It is cold weatherVirgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene IV: "I do not know"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene V: "Will they remember?"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act II: Scene I: "Susan B, they want youVirgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act II: Scene II: "Oh, it was wonderful"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act II: Scene III: "The vote!"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Devlin, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All Suite: PreludeVirgil Thomson, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All Suite: Cold WeatherVirgil Thomson, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All Suite: A Political MeetingVirgil Thomson, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
The Mother of Us All Suite: HymnsVirgil Thomson, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theater Orchestra
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