Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American music with William Grant Still's "Still: Songs & Piano Music," a captivating collection of songs and piano pieces that showcase the composer's unique voice and deep connection to his cultural heritage. Released on July 23, 2024, by CPO, this album spans a concise yet impactful 66 minutes, offering a journey through Still's evocative compositions.
The album is a blend of Still's renowned songs and lesser-known piano works, providing a comprehensive overview of his musical prowess. It features a mix of styles, from the hauntingly beautiful "Songs of Separation" series to the vibrant and rhythmic "Dance of the Porteuses." Each track tells a story, drawing from Still's experiences and the rich cultural landscape of the American South.
Highlights include the poignant "If You Should Go," the lively "Arkansas," and the deeply moving "From the Hearts of Women" series. The album also showcases Still's ability to blend traditional and contemporary elements, as seen in "All That I Am" and "Here's One," both arranged for voice and piano. The inclusion of "Swanee River" and "My Brother American" underscores Still's engagement with American musical traditions and his innovative approach to them.
William Grant Still, often referred to as the "Dean of African American Composers," brings his distinctive perspective to each piece, creating a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. "Still: Songs & Piano Music" is a testament to his enduring legacy and a celebration of his contributions to American music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Still's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling exploration of his artistry.
Tracks
Rising TideWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Songs of Separation: No. 1, IdolatryWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Songs of Separation: No. 2, PoemeWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Songs of Separation: No. 3, PartedWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Songs of Separation: No. 4, If You Should GoWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Songs of Separation: No. 5, A Black PierrotWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
ArkansasWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
All That I Am (Arr. for Voice & Piano by Anonymous)William Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Here's One (Version for Voice & Piano)William Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Sinner, Please Don't Let This Harvest PassWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
From the Hearts of Women: No. 1, Little MotherWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Yajie Zhang
From the Hearts of Women: No. 2, MidtideWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Yajie Zhang
From the Hearts of Women: No. 3, CoquetteWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Yajie Zhang
From the Hearts of Women: No. 4, BereftWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Yajie Zhang
MississippiWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
CitadelWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Weeping AngelWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
PreludeWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll
Dance of the PorteusesWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll
Swanee RiverWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll
My Brother AmericanWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Up ThereWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Bayou HomeWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Song for the ValiantWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Song for the LonelyWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
The Breath of a RoseWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
Plain Chant for AmericaWilliam Grant Still, Hartmut Höll, Gabriel Rollinson
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