Jennifer Higdon, a celebrated American composer, presents a captivating collection of her works in this album, released on December 12, 2006, under the Naxos label. Spanning a duration of 57 minutes, this album is a testament to Higdon's versatility and mastery of composition, offering a diverse range of pieces that showcase her unique voice and innovative approach to music.
The album opens with the Piano Trio, a three-movement work that explores a spectrum of emotions and colors, from the delicate and introspective "Pale Yellow" to the passionate and intense "Fiery Red." Following this, the Voices suite presents a trio of pieces that delve into the expressive potential of the string quartet, with titles that hint at the character of each movement: "Blitz," "Soft Enlacing," and "Grace."
The final work on the album, Impressions, is a four-movement suite for solo piano that offers a vivid and evocative exploration of color, texture, and form. Each movement is inspired by a different artistic medium, from the vibrant and dynamic "Bright Palette" to the introspective and contemplative "Quiet Art," the concise and direct "To the Point," and the expansive and expressive "Noted Canvas."
Throughout the album, Higdon's music is characterized by its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and intricate rhythms, as well as its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and imagery. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jennifer Higdon's music or a newcomer to her work, this album is sure to offer a rewarding and engaging listening experience.