"Victory Stride: The Symphonic Music Of James P. Johnson" is a captivating journey through the symphonic works of the legendary James P. Johnson, a pioneer of ragtime, boogie-woogie, and jazz. Released on January 1, 1994, this album is a testament to Johnson's musical genius, showcasing his unique ability to blend jazz with classical symphonic structures.
The album opens with the energetic "Victory Stride," a brief yet dynamic piece featuring solos from trumpet, clarinet, trombone, and piano. This is followed by the four-movement "Harlem Symphony," a vivid musical portrayal of life in Harlem, with each movement painting a different scene: the bustling "Subway Journey," the serene "April in Harlem," the lively "Night Club," and the spiritual "Baptist Mission."
The album also includes the "Concerto Jazz-A-Mine," a two-movement work that masterfully combines jazz and classical elements, and the "American Symphonic Suite," which includes a poignant rendition of W.C. Handy's "St. Louis Blues." The album concludes with "Drums - A Symphonic Poem" and the lively "Charleston."
Conducted by Marin Alsop and performed by the Concordia Orchestra, this album is a must-listen for fans of both jazz and classical music. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes, it offers a rich and diverse listening experience that highlights the innovative spirit of James P. Johnson. The album was released under the Musical Heritage Society label and is available on CD.
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