Dawn Upshaw's "Knoxville: Summer of 1915" is a captivating exploration of classical and minimalist music, released under Nonesuch/Warner Records in 2005. This album showcases Upshaw's extraordinary vocal prowess and her ability to bring depth and nuance to a diverse range of compositions.
The album opens with the title track, "Knoxville: Summer of 1915" by Samuel Barber, a setting of a prose text by James Agee that captures the essence of a Southern American childhood. Upshaw's delicate and expressive delivery brings a sense of nostalgia and longing to the piece. The album also features the world premiere recording of "What a Curse for a Woman Is a Timid Man" by John Harbison, a hauntingly beautiful work that highlights Upshaw's ability to convey deep emotion.
The second half of the album is dedicated to the "Mirabai Songs" by Dominick Argento, a cycle of six songs based on the poetry of the Indian saint Mirabai. Upshaw's interpretation of these songs is both sensitive and powerful, showcasing her ability to navigate the complex rhythms and melodies of the minimalist style. The album concludes with "No Word from Tom," a poignant work by Jennifer Higdon that reflects on the loss of a loved one.
Throughout the album, Upshaw is accompanied by the Orchestra of St. Luke's, conducted by David Zinman. The orchestral arrangements are rich and textured, providing a perfect foil for Upshaw's voice. The album's duration is a concise 43 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to the world of classical and minimalist music.
"Knoxville: Summer of 1915" is a testament to Dawn Upshaw's artistry and her ability to bring new life to both classic and contemporary works. Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout