Immerse yourself in the timeless composition of Virgil Thomson with "The Mother of Us All," a neoclassical masterpiece released on April 1, 2014, under Albany Records. This two-hour odyssey is a profound exploration of history and politics, set to a score that is both intricate and accessible. Thomson, known for his innovative approach to classical music, weaves a tapestry of sound that is as thought-provoking as it is melodically rich.
The album is a complete performance of Thomson's opera "The Mother of Us All," which is divided into two acts and five scenes, followed by a suite. Each track is a vignette that builds on the narrative, offering a unique blend of vocal and instrumental passages that are both haunting and beautiful. The opera is a tribute to the suffragette movement, with Susan B. Anthony serving as a central figure, making it a compelling listen for those interested in both music and history.
Virgil Thomson's compositional style is evident throughout, with a focus on clarity and structure that makes the complex themes accessible. The neoclassical genre is represented with a modern twist, blending traditional forms with contemporary sensibilities. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Mother of Us All" offers a rewarding and enriching experience.
Tracks
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene I, "Yes, I was"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene II, "Pity the poor persecutor"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene III, "It is cold weatherVirgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene IV, "I do not know"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act I: Scene V, "Will they remember?"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act II: Scene I, "Susan B, they want youVirgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act II: Scene II, "Oh, it was wonderful"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All, Act II: Scene III, "The vote!"Virgil Thomson, Noragh Devlin, Scott Russell, Alexander Frankel, Addison Hamilton, Carlton Moe, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
The Mother of Us All Suite: PreludeVirgil Thomson, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra, Steven Osgood
The Mother of Us All Suite: Cold WeatherVirgil Thomson, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra, Steven Osgood
The Mother of Us All Suite: A Political MeetingVirgil Thomson, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra, Steven Osgood
The Mother of Us All Suite: HymnsVirgil Thomson, Manhattan Schol of Music Opera Orchestra, Steven Osgood, Manhattan School of Music Opera Orchestra
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