Dive into the rich, vibrant world of George Gershwin with "Gershwin: Selections from Porgy and Bess & Blue Monday." This captivating album, released on May 1, 1998, under the Telarc label, is a testament to Gershwin's genius and his profound influence on American music. Spanning a little over an hour, this collection is a blend of ragtime rhythms and operatic grandeur, showcasing Gershwin's unique ability to merge high art with popular culture.
The album features selections from Gershwin's renowned opera "Porgy and Bess," a work that has become a staple in the operatic repertoire. From the hauntingly beautiful "Summertime" to the lively "I Got Plenty o' Nuttin'," each track offers a glimpse into the lives of the characters in Catfish Row, their struggles, and their triumphs. The opera's blend of spirituals, blues, and jazz elements creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both deeply moving and incredibly engaging.
In addition to the selections from "Porgy and Bess," the album also includes "Blue Monday (Opera à la Afro-American)," a lesser-known but equally captivating work by Gershwin. This piece is a delightful blend of ragtime and operatic styles, showcasing Gershwin's versatility and innovation.
Whether you're a long-time fan of Gershwin or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. It's a journey through the heart of American music, guided by one of its most brilliant and influential composers. So, sit back, relax, and let the music of George Gershwin transport you to a world of rhythm, melody, and pure musical magic.
Tracks
Porgy and Bess, Act I: IntroductionGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel
Porgy and Bess, Act I: SummertimeGeorge Gershwin, Erich Kunzel, Harolyn Blackwell, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Porgy and Bess, Act I: A Woman Is a Sometime ThingGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Gregg Baker
Porgy and Bess, Act I: Gone, Gone, GoneGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister, Gregg Baker
Porgy and Bess, Act I: OverflowGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister
Porgy and Bess, Act I: My Man's Gone NowGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Angela Brown
Porgy and Bess, Act I: Leavin' for the Promise Lan'George Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister
Porgy and Bess, Act II: I Got Plenty o' Nuttin'George Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Gregg Baker
Porgy and Bess, Act II: Bess, You Is My Woman NowGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister, Gregg Baker
Porgy and Bess, Act II: Oh, I Can't Sit DownGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Cab Calloway
Porgy and Bess, Act II: I Ain't Got No ShameGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Cab Calloway
Porgy and Bess, Act II: It Ain't Necessarily SoGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Cab Calloway
Porgy and Bess, Act II: I Loves You, PorgyGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister, Gregg Baker
Porgy and Bess, Act III: Opening SceneGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister, Angela Brown, Sebronette Barnes
Porgy and Bess, Act III: Lonely BoyGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Angela Brown, Marquita Lister
Porgy and Bess, Act III: Oh, Bess, O Where's My BessGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Angela Brown, Sebronette Barnes, Gregg Baker
Porgy and Bess, Act III: Oh, Lawd, I'm on My WayGeorge Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister, Gregg Baker
Blue Monday (Opera à la Afro-American)George Gershwin, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Erich Kunzel, Marquita Lister, Gregg Baker, William Henry Caldwell, Lawrence Craig, Kirk Walker, Thomas Young
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