Nothing Divine is Mundane

Album Description

"Nothing Divine is Mundane" is a captivating neoclassical album composed by the renowned Virgil Thomson, released on December 1, 1997, under Albany Records. This album is a testament to Thomson's musical prowess, featuring a diverse collection of 25 tracks that span a little over an hour. The album showcases a blend of Thomson's original compositions and settings of poems by William Blake, Thomas Campion, and Marianne Moore, demonstrating his versatility and depth as a composer.

The album features the exceptional vocal talents of soprano Dora Ohrenstein, accompanied by the Cassat Quartet, with Muneko Otani and Jennifer Leshnower on violins, and Michiko Oshima on viola. The instrumentation and vocal performances come together to create a rich and immersive soundscape that highlights the intricate details of Thomson's compositions.

From the hauntingly beautiful "Stabat Mater" to the evocative settings of William Blake's poetry, including "The Divine Image" and "Tiger! Tiger!", the album offers a journey through a variety of musical landscapes. The songs from "Mostly About Love" and "Tres Estampas de Niñez" add a touch of intimacy and personal reflection, while the settings of Thomas Campion's poems bring a Renaissance charm to the collection.

"Nothing Divine is Mundane" is a celebration of Virgil Thomson's artistic vision, offering a profound and engaging listening experience that showcases his unique contribution to the neoclassical genre. Whether you are a longtime fan of Thomson's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

1 december 1997

(P) 2006 Albany Records

About Virgil Thomson

Virgil Thomson, born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1896, was a multifaceted American composer and critic whose work significantly shaped the "American Sound" in classical music. Known for his versatility and originality, Thomson's compositions span various styles and genres, from operas to film scores, each marked by clarity, irony, and playful invention. His collaborations with notable figures like Gertrude Stein and his Pulitzer Prize-winning score for the film "Louisiana Story" cemented his influence on American music. Thomson's journey from his roots in Kansas City to the vibrant artistic scenes of Paris and New York reflects his unique blend of American and European influences, making his music a rich tapestry of cultural exchange. Whether exploring his operas, instrumental works, or insightful music criticism, engaging with Virgil Thomson's artistry offers a deep dive into the evolution of 20th-century music.