American Serenade

American Serenade is a captivating album by the talented violinist Rachel Kolly, released on September 1, 2013, under the Wondering Minstrel label. This enchanting collection of works spans a little over an hour, offering a rich and diverse musical experience.

The album features a stunning array of compositions, including the Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra, a series of seven movements that beautifully reinterpret the beloved Gershwin tunes. Each movement brings a unique charm, from the playful "It ain't Necessarily So" to the tender "Summertime" and the passionate "Bess You is My Woman Now."

In addition to the Gershwin fantasy, the album showcases the Serenade after Plato's Symposium for Violin and Orchestra, a five-movement piece that draws inspiration from the philosophical dialogues of Plato. This work is a testament to Rachel Kolly's versatility and depth as a musician, blending classical elegance with contemporary sensibilities.

The album concludes with the Carmen Fantasie for Violin and Orchestra, a thrilling and virtuosic piece that highlights Kolly's exceptional technical skill and expressive range.

American Serenade is a testament to Rachel Kolly's artistry, offering a blend of classical elegance, contemporary interpretations, and virtuosic performances that will captivate any music enthusiast.