Be Glad Then, America! is a captivating classical album, released on 1 January 1976, under the Universal Music Australia Pty. Ltd. label. Conducted by the renowned Antal Doráti, this masterpiece features the National Symphony Orchestra and the University of Maryland Chorus. The album is a celebration of America's bicentennial, with Robert Russell Bennett's commissioned work, 'The Fun and Faith of William Billings', taking centre stage.
This 14-track album is a testament to Doráti's exceptional direction, showcasing excellent orchestral playing and superb recorded sound. The tracklist includes a mix of Billings's original settings, which inspired Schuman's New England Triptych, as well as other notable pieces such as 'Be glad then America - anthem' and 'When Jesus wept'. The New England Triptych, comprising 'Be Glad Then, America', 'When Jesus Wept', and 'Chester', is a highlight of the album, demonstrating the orchestra's and chorus's impressive range and skill.
With a duration of 53 minutes, Be Glad Then, America! is an immersive experience that will delight fans of classical music, opera, and orchestral performances. Antal Doráti's masterful interpretation of these iconic pieces ensures that this album remains a timeless classic, worthy of repeated listens. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Doráti's work or discovering his genius for the first time, Be Glad Then, America! is an album that will leave you in awe of the beauty and elegance of classical music.
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 1. Allegro moderatoRobert Russell Bennett, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 2. O Praise GodRobert Russell Bennett, University Of Maryland Chorus, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 3. Andante. When Jesus WeptRobert Russell Bennett, University Of Maryland Chorus, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 4. Allegretto. I Am The Rose Of SharonRobert Russell Bennett, University Of Maryland Chorus, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 5. Adagio - Moderato (poco allegretto)Robert Russell Bennett, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 6. Andante alla breve: Hear, Hear O HeavensRobert Russell Bennett, University Of Maryland Chorus, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 7. Moderato (deciso): Wash Ye, Make Ye CleanRobert Russell Bennett, University Of Maryland Chorus, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
The Fun And Faith Of William Billings, American: 8. Allegro moderato: Yea, The Lord Will Answer - Be Glad Then, AmericaRobert Russell Bennett, University Of Maryland Chorus, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
Be glad then America - anthemWilliam Billings, University Of Maryland Chorus, Antal Doráti
The New-England Psalm-Singer: When Jesus weptWilliam Billings, University Of Maryland Chorus, Antal Doráti
The Singing Master's Assistant: ChesterWilliam Billings, University Of Maryland Chorus, Antal Doráti
New England Triptych: 1. Be Glad Then, AmericaWilliam Schuman, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
New England Triptych: 2. When Jesus WeptWilliam Schuman, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti
New England Triptych: 3. ChesterWilliam Schuman, National Symphony Orchestra Washington, Antal Doráti