Coleridge-Taylor: Hiawatha Overture, Petite Suite, & Other Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor with this captivating collection of his most beloved works. Released on February 11, 2022, by Naxos, this album showcases the composer's unique blend of classical elegance and cultural influences, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.

The album opens with the iconic "The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 3, Overture," a piece that has become synonymous with Coleridge-Taylor's name. This is followed by the delightful "Petite Suite de Concert, Op. 77," a four-movement suite that highlights the composer's mastery of form and melody. The "4 Characteristic Waltzes, Op. 22" offer a charming interlude, each waltz with its own distinct character and charm.

The "Gipsy Suite, Op. 20," arranged for orchestra by L. Windsperger, is a standout feature of this album. This suite, inspired by the vibrant culture of the Romani people, is a testament to Coleridge-Taylor's ability to blend different musical influences into a cohesive and compelling whole. The suite's four movements—"Chorus of Gitanos," "Song of the Gipsy Girl," "Ballade," and "Gipsy Dance"—each offer a unique glimpse into the world of the Romani people.

The album also includes the enchanting "Romance of the Prairie Lilies," arranged for orchestra by P.E. Fletcher, and the evocative "Othello, Op. 79" suite. This suite, inspired by Shakespeare's tragic love story, features a "Dance," a "Children's Intermezzo," the haunting "Willow Song," and a stirring "Military March."

The RTÉ Concert Orchestra, under the baton of Adrian Leaper, brings these works to life with a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Whether you're a longtime fan of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, it's the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening, exploring the rich and varied world of this remarkable composer.

11 februari 2022

(P) 2022 Naxos

About Samuel Coleridge-Taylor

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, born in London in 1875, was a pioneering British composer and conductor whose music transcended racial and cultural boundaries. Of mixed-race heritage, with an English mother and a Creole father from Sierra Leone, Coleridge-Taylor's work was deeply influenced by both European classical traditions and African melodies. He gained international acclaim for his three cantatas based on Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's epic poem 'The Song of Hiawatha', with the first section premiering when he was just 23. Often hailed as the "African Mahler," his compositions, including the Violin Concerto in G minor, reflect his unique blend of musical styles and cultural influences. Despite facing personal struggles, including poverty and tragedy, Coleridge-Taylor's legacy endures as a testament to his musical genius and his impact on the classical music landscape.