Dawn Upshaw's 1991 release, "Copland: Old American Songs & 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson," is a captivating exploration of American musical heritage and poetic beauty. This album, released under Warner Classics International, seamlessly blends the genres of opera, minimalism, and classical music, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
The album is divided into two main sections. The first features Aaron Copland's "Old American Songs," a collection of traditional folk tunes arranged by Copland himself. These songs, performed with Upshaw's signature clarity and warmth, showcase the simplicity and depth of American folk music. Tracks like "Simple Gifts" and "At The River" are standout pieces that highlight Upshaw's ability to convey both joy and introspection.
The second section of the album is dedicated to Copland's settings of Emily Dickinson's poetry. Upshaw's delicate and nuanced interpretations bring Dickinson's words to life, creating a deeply moving musical experience. Songs like "Nature, the Gentlest Mother" and "The Chariot" demonstrate Upshaw's exceptional skill in blending voice and text.
In addition to these two main sections, the album also includes selections from Copland's ballet "Billy the Kid," providing a dynamic contrast to the more intimate songs. The inclusion of these pieces adds a layer of complexity and variety to the album, showcasing Upshaw's versatility as a performer.
With a total runtime of just over an hour, this album is a testament to Dawn Upshaw's artistry and her ability to connect with audiences through her music. Whether you're a fan of classical music, opera, or simply appreciate beautiful singing, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 1 : I The Boatmen's DanceTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 1 : II The DodgerTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 1 : III Long Time AgoTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 1 : IV Simple GiftsAnonymous, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 1 : V I Bought Me a CatAnonymous, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 2 : I The Little HorsesTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 2 : II Zion's WallsTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 2 : III The Golden Willow TreeTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 2 : IV At The RiverTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Trad / Arr Copland : Old American Songs Set 2 : V Ching-a-Ring ChawTraditional United States, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : Down a Country LaneAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : I Nature, the Gentlest MotherAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : II There Came a Wind like a BugleAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : IV The World Feels DustyAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : V Heart, We Will Forget Him!Aaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : VI Dear March, Come In!Aaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : VII Sleep is Supposed to BeAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : XI Going to HeavenAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland : 12 Poems of Emily Dickinson : XII The ChariotAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland: Billy the Kid: VII. WaltzAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland: Billy the Kid: IV. Prairie NightAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Copland: Billy the Kid: VI. Celebration - After Billy's CaptureAaron Copland, Hugh Wolf, Hugh Wolff, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
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