"Florence Price Piano Discoveries" is a captivating classical album that showcases the rediscovered works of the remarkable Florence Beatrice Price, an African American composer who made history as the first black woman to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra. Released on February 14, 2020, under Flipside Music, this album is a testament to Price's enduring legacy and her unique ability to blend cultural influences into her compositions.
Spanning just under 47 minutes, the album features 14 tracks, including the evocative "Meditation," the intricate "Fantasie Nègre No. 4 in B minor," and the serene "Clouds." Each piece offers a glimpse into Price's innovative style and her profound musical insights. The album also includes "Sketches in Sepia," a work that has been analyzed for its negotiation of cultural dissonances, and "In Sentimental Mood," a piece that reflects Price's ability to convey deep emotion through her music.
Originally from Arkansas, Price spent much of her career on the south side of Chicago, where she composed works that were both deeply personal and universally resonant. The rediscovery of her manuscripts has provided a fresh infusion of energy into the classical music world, and "Florence Price Piano Discoveries" is a celebration of her enduring contributions.
This album is not just a collection of previously unpublished works; it is a journey through the mind and heart of a pioneering composer. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, "Florence Price Piano Discoveries" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the timeless beauty of Price's compositions.