William Grant Still (1895-1978) from Little Rock was a pioneer in many ways. He was the first African American to successfully depart from the generally acceptable genres of jazz and pop. He lived to see a symphonic work and an opera of his performed, he conducted the Los Angeles Philharmonic and directed an important Southern orchestra. The respect that he acquired is reflected in two Guggenheim fellowships and five honorary doctorates, as well as a growing number of top-quality recordings of his works. This album is dedicated to the composer's impressive art songs. Two dozen works, including simple spirituals, expansive, declamatory and captivating scenes, touching miniatures and provocative challenges paint a portrait of a self-assured man asserting his musical authority.

Tracklist:

Rising Tide
Songs of Separation~Idolatry
Songs of Separation~PoÃ¨me
Songs of Separation~Parted
Songs of Separation~If you should go
Songs of Separation~A Black Pierrot
Arkansas
All that I am
Here's One
Sinner, Please Don't Let This Harvest Pass
From the Hearts of Women~Little Mother
From the Hearts of Women~Midtide
From the Hearts of Women~Coquette
From the Hearts of Women~Bereft
Mississippi
Citadel
Grief (Weeping Angel)
5 Preludes~Prelude
Dance of the Porteuses
Swanee River
My Brother American
Up There
Bayou Home
Song for the Valiant
Song for the Lonely
Breath of a Rose
Plain-Chant for America

UPC: 761203562725
Label: Cpo Records
Release Date: 10.18.24
Format: CD

Still / Holl / Rollinson - Collection Of Songs & Piano Music (CD)