Copland: Quiet City

Album Description

Experience the enchanting vocals of Barbara Hendricks in this captivating 1995 release, "Copland: Quiet City." This album, released under Warner Classics, is a harmonious blend of opera and classical genres, spanning a total duration of one hour and three minutes. Hendricks' powerful and expressive voice takes center stage, accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Michael Tilson Thomas.

The album opens with Aaron Copland's evocative "Quiet City," followed by a series of eight poems by Emily Dickinson, beautifully set to music. Each poem is a testament to Hendricks' ability to convey deep sentiment and introspection. The album also features Samuel Barber's iconic "Adagio for Strings" and "Knoxville: Summer of 1915," showcasing Hendricks' versatility and range.

Hendricks' performance is marked by her clear articulation and nuanced interpretation of the text, making each piece a standalone masterclass in vocal artistry. The instrumental works, including Copland's "Quiet City" and Barber's "Adagio for Strings," provide a rich tapestry of sound that complements Hendricks' vocals perfectly. This album is a testament to Hendricks' enduring talent and her ability to bring depth and meaning to every piece she performs.

17 mei 1995

About Barbara Hendricks

Barbara Hendricks is an acclaimed American lyric soprano renowned for her powerful voice and versatility across opera, jazz, and recital performances. Born in Arkansas, Hendricks initially pursued a degree in chemistry and mathematics at the University of Nebraska before turning to music. She began her vocal training at the age of 19 and made her operatic debut in 1974, quickly gaining international acclaim. Hendricks is not just a remarkable artist but also a dedicated humanitarian, serving as a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador since 1987. Her repertoire spans from classical arias to jazz standards, and she has performed on some of the world's most prestigious stages. Beyond her musical achievements, Hendricks has also made significant contributions to environmental conservation and social justice, serving as the German Minister for the Environment from 2013 to 2018. Her journey from the segregated South to the global opera scene is a testament to her resilience and talent, inspiring audiences worldwide.