Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Jennifer Higdon's "Higdon: All Things Majestic, Viola Concerto & Oboe Concerto," a stunning collection of works that showcases the composer's distinctive voice and mastery of orchestral composition. This album, released on Naxos in 2017, is a testament to Higdon's status as one of America's most celebrated contemporary composers.
The centerpiece of the album is the Viola Concerto, a three-movement work commissioned by and dedicated to Roberto Díaz, former principal viola of the Philadelphia Orchestra. The concerto is a tour de force for the viola, with lush, cinematic passages that highlight the instrument's expressive range. The work's beauty and innovation earned it the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Classical Contemporary Composition.
Also featured on the album is the Oboe Concerto, a lyrical and evocative piece that showcases the oboe's hauntingly beautiful sound. The concerto is performed with exquisite sensitivity by James Button, principal oboe of the Nashville Symphony.
The album's title track, "All Things Majestic," is a four-movement work inspired by the natural beauty of the American West. Each movement is named after a different location in Grand Teton National Park, and the music captures the grandeur and majesty of these landscapes. The work is performed by the Nashville Symphony under the direction of conductor Giancarlo Guerrero, with whom Higdon has a long and fruitful collaboration.
Throughout the album, Higdon's music is characterized by its rich harmonies, inventive rhythms, and vivid orchestration. The performances by the Nashville Symphony and its soloists are impeccable, bringing Higdon's vision to life with clarity and passion. Whether you are a longtime fan of Jennifer Higdon's music or a newcomer to her work, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
Vinylscout