Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of William Schuman with his compelling album, "Schuman: Carols of Death, Perceptions, Esses & Others." Released on January 1, 1996, under the Vox label, this collection offers a diverse and thought-provoking journey through Schuman's distinctive compositional style. Spanning a duration of one hour and two minutes, the album features a variety of pieces that showcase Schuman's mastery of form and expression.
The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Carols of Death," a series of three movements that explore themes of mortality and reflection. Following this, "Perceptions" presents a suite of eight pieces, each offering a unique glimpse into Schuman's imaginative and introspective world. The album also includes the whimsical "Mail Order Madrigals," a set of four humorous and satirical pieces, and the evocative "Esses," a quartet of movements that delve into themes of suggestion, serenity, and stillness.
Throughout the album, Schuman's compositions are characterized by their intricate structures, rich harmonies, and profound emotional depth. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating exploration of one of America's most influential composers.
2025 Naxos Rights (Europe) Ltd2025 Naxos Rights (Europe) Ltd
Tracks
PreludeWilliam Schuman, Rosalind Rees, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Carols of Death: No. 1, The Last InvocationWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Carols of Death: No. 2, The Unknown RegionWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Carols of Death: No. 3, To All, To EachWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Perceptions: No. 1, ThoughtWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Perceptions: No. 2, Beautiful Women - No. 3, To Old AgeWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Perceptions: No. 4, Each of UsWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Perceptions: No. 5, To The StatesWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Perceptions: No. 6, A Farm PictureWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Perceptions: No. 7, Whoever You AreWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Perceptions: No. 8, To YouWilliam Schuman, Rosalind Rees, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
5 Rounds on Famous Words: No. 1, HealthWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
5 Rounds on Famous Words: No. 2, ThriftWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
5 Rounds on Famous Words: No. 3, CautionWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
5 Rounds on Famous Words: No. 4, BeautyWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
5 Rounds on Famous Words: No. 5, HasteWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Mail Order Madrigals: No. 1, Attention, Ladies!William Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Mail Order Madrigals: No. 2, Superfluous HairWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Mail Order Madrigals: No. 3, Sweet Refreshing SleepWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Mail Order Madrigals: No. 4, Dr. Worden's PillsWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Esses: No. 1, SuggestionsWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Esses: No. 2, SerenataWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Esses: No. 3, StillnessWilliam Schuman, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Esses: No. 4, SingalingWilliam Schuman, Rosalind Rees, Leslie Dorsey, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith
Orpheus with His LuteWilliam Schuman, Rosalind Rees, Dwana Holroyd, Gregg Smith Singers, Gregg Smith